In Ontario, conducting an…

In Ontario, conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not only best practice, but a legal requirement under the Environmental Assessment Act. The current assessment is not only required by law but ensures compliance with regulations and promotes accountability among both developers and government agencies. Thorough and adequate environmental assessments are crucial for understanding and mitigating the impacts of roadway developments on both ecosystems and neighbouring communities. This process is vital given the current state of climate chaos, which is causing devastating effects on a global scale. An application to exempt all activities by or on behalf of the Minister of Transportation that are for or related to Highway 413 from the Environmental Assessment Act, then to recreate and re-establish an entirely new framework for future environmental impact assessments solely for the purpose of assessing the proposed Highway 413 project is absurd, not to mention an extremely time consuming and expensive endeavour. More wasted tax dollars. Circumventing the established policy to create an entirely new process raises concerns about which critical steps in the assessment might be overlooked or omitted altogether. In addition, the proposed legislation is also seeking an exemption from Part II of the Environmental Bill of Rights, 1993 which states the requirement that proposals be posted for public comment. Not only is this proposal seeking a dirty fast-tracked pace for development and an omission from current legal requirements, but it is also now attempting to eliminate the publics ability to express their concerns or dissenting opinions regarding the matter. EIAs not only contribute to maintaining the ecological balance and resilience of the environment, but they also assess roadway development factors such as concerns about air quality, noise pollution, and the health impacts on nearby communities. This proactive approach not only protects the environment, and in return the people, but also prioritizes the health and well-being of residents. The public has the right to know what potential impacts the new development will have on their health and overall community, as well the right to know of these potential hazards prior to them occurring and becoming a chronic issue. I am disappointed with the provincial government for failing to recognize the importance of environmental and public impacts within this proposal. Highway 407 was already developed to alleviate highway congestion within the greater Toronto area, yet due to its lease agreements with public and private shareholders, along with its high toll costs associated with its use, it sits almost vacant, like a deserted wasteland. Bravo Ontario.