It is my pleasure to respond…

It is my pleasure to respond to the Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023.

I commend the government for recognition of the importance of retaining lands of designated heritage, agricultural and environmental importance as a public trust. As the government moves to enact the Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023, I would like to note important considerations that should be included.

* As per Federal Law, and in keeping with respect for the First Nations of Ontario, establish meaningful and respectful dialogue with Indigenous peoples of Ontario.

* Prohibit new aggregate extraction permits in the Greenbelt. This places habitat, groundwater and green space in peril.

* Absolutely legislate that the 10 year Greenbelt Reviews can only add land to the Greenbelt, NOT remove or swap Greenbelt lands.

* Pay to Slay permits are unconscionable and irresponsible. We must further our understanding to acknowledge the importance of all biodiversity in an ecosystem, and thereby protect the habitats of all species, and in particular, endangered species.

* Protect all Prime Agricultural lands in the Greenbelt through Conservation Easements, and end the grandfathering of previous zoning for development applications within the Greenbelt.