The only area that is…

The only area that is proposed to be removed from the Oak Ridges Moraine in this Bill 23 seems to be the area in King Township.

1. There is no need to remove this land for development. Municipal planners have pointed out that there is sufficient land already designated for development without needing this land.

2. The Township of King has already objected to the removal of this land.

3. According to the ORMCP 2017, the Vision for the Oak Ridges Moraine is The Vision for the Oak Ridges Moraine is that of "a continuous band of green rolling hills that provides form and structure to south-central Ontario, while protecting the ecological and hydrological features and functions that support the health and well-being of the region’s residents and ecosystems."

There have been no consultations with scientists as to whether or not the removal of this land will destroy the ecological and hydrological features and functions.

4. According to the ORMCP 2017, there is a time to review the plan. The 10 year review of the ORMCP should be co-ordinated with the reviews of the Greenbelt Plan and the Niagara Escarpment Plan. The Minister is to consult with affected ministries, public bodies, municipalities, First Nations and Metis communities and ensure that the public is given an opportunity to participate.

This has not happened. There have been no consultations. The municipalities are objecting, the public is objecting. Rallies against this bill are being held around the province.

In conclusion, the ORM should not have its boundary breached without good reasons and without consultations with various groups and the public.