It’s clear that the changes…

It’s clear that the changes proposed in this bill are being presented under the guise of promoting “sustainable economic growth.” However, this does not align with the original intent of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). As a young person living in Ontario, I believe it is far more important to prioritize genuine environmental sustainability and responsible growth.

I am concerned about the adoption of new policies without clear, transparent plans outlining how environmental protections will be maintained. Any development must be approached with a heightened awareness of its environmental impact.

If critical infrastructure and transit are truly the priority, then more effort and funding should be directed toward improving those systems directly—instead of creating loopholes or bypasses. Ontario has no right to circumvent COSSARO; this independent body exists for a reason. If concerns lie with delays or duplicated efforts, then the solution should be to provide more resources to support this impartial third party—not to undermine it.

This bill also undermines the spirit of the 92 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. First Nations communities are vital partners in consultation processes and must not be sidelined.

Lastly, changing the definition of habitat protection is deeply troubling. If an entire neighborhood is destroyed but your individual home remains intact, can we truly say you've been protected? The same logic applies to wildlife. True conservation requires protecting ecosystems—not just isolated pieces of them.