I strongly oppose Bill 5,…

I strongly oppose Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act. This legislation poses a serious threat to our natural heritage, democratic processes and Indigenous rights.

Bill 5 proposes to repeal the Endangered Species Act — one of the few tools we have to protect at-risk wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. Replacing it with vague “goals” and unenforceable measures will lead to the further decline of species already on the brink. This is not modernization. It’s deregulation that puts short-term industrial economic gain ahead of long-term ecological health, community health and the long-term economic well-being of all citizens.

Equally alarming is the creation of “special economic zones” that would allow cabinet to approve major development projects without proper environmental assessment, public input or Indigenous consultation. This short cut undermines transparency, accountability and Ontario’s duty to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties.

The bringing in of weaker protections and reducing the amount of say citizens have with respect to potential decisions that affect the province’s land, water and future is not in the interest of citizens. Bill 5 would silence community voices, marginalize science and erase decades of hard-won environmental progress.

I urge the Ontario government to withdraw Bill 5 in its entirety and instead work with environmental experts, Indigenous communities and the public to strengthen — not dismantle — our systems of environmental protection.

Protecting nature is not a barrier to economic growth. It’s the foundation of a healthy, resilient and just society that provides increased economic well-being over the long-term.

Yours truly,
I was going to provide my name and email address, but you indicate my input would then not be shared publicly. Thus, I do not include my name and email address, even though I would be happy to do so.