I’m strongly opposed to the…

I’m strongly opposed to the proposed repeal of the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and the introduction of the Species Conservation Act, 2025. Speeding up approvals for development by moving to a “register-first” model helps developers, but it puts species and habitats at serious risk. The current system is careful for a reason, it ensures that environmental impacts are properly assessed before work begins.

This new approach would let most projects start without expert review, relying too much on developers to follow the rules on their own. Voluntary conservation efforts are ineffective and will not protect species or habitats.

Ontario’s ESA is one of the strongest environmental laws. Gutting it in the name of “efficiency” would be a huge step in the wrong direction. We can build housing and infrastructure without sacrificing our biodiversity. This proposal doesn’t strike that balance, and it shouldn’t move forward.