Protecting nature is not a…

Protecting nature is not a barrier to economic growth - it is the foundation of a healthy and resilient society. I strongly oppose Bill 5, legislation that poses a great threat to Ontario’s natural heritage, democratic processes and Indigenous rights.
Bill 5 proposes to repeal the Endangered Species Act — a tool we have to protect at-risk wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. Replacing it with vague “goals” and unenforceable measures will lead to further decline of species already on the brink. Bill 5 puts short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and public health.
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.
Ontarians have not asked for weaker protections or less say in decisions that affect the province’s land, water and future. Bill 5 would 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 leaders and the public to strengthen our systems of environmental protection.