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 appear to weaken protections for at-risk species and prioritize development and industry interests over ecological responsibility. Ontario is already experiencing alarming biodiversity loss, and this legislation risks accelerating the decline of species and habitats that are essential to the health of our ecosystems.

Rather than creating loopholes or shifting accountability away from environmental oversight, we should be strengthening our commitment to conservation through science-based decision-making, meaningful public consultation, and transparent enforcement mechanisms. Water, forests, and wildlife are public goods — they must not be compromised for short-term economic gains.

I urge the government to halt this proposal and instead invest in reinforcing and fully implementing the existing Endangered Species Act, 2007, with the urgency that the biodiversity crisis demands.