I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed interim changes to the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and the introduction of the Species Conservation Act, 2025. These changes represent a significant weakening of the legal protections that endangered and threatened species currently rely on in Ontario.

The Endangered Species Act, 2007 is a science-based, globally respected piece of legislation that has provided essential protections to species at risk and their habitats. Replacing or altering it to accommodate short-term economic interests undermines the long-term ecological and social value of Ontario’s natural heritage. Diluting habitat protections, deferring recovery strategies, or increasing discretionary powers for development threatens irreversible biodiversity loss.

We need stronger—not weaker—commitments to conservation. Any new proposal should enhance transparency, reinforce scientific decision-making, and prioritize ecosystem health, not pave the way for regulatory shortcuts that benefit industry at the expense of the environment.

I urge the government to maintain the integrity of the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and reject these harmful proposals. Protecting biodiversity is not just an environmental issue—it's essential to our health, economy, and future.