I am writing to voice my…

I am writing to voice my deep concern and strong opposition to Ontario’s proposed Bill 5. While framed as an economic initiative, this bill opens the door to the unregulated use of special economic zones (SEZs)—a move that threatens both our democratic foundations and the health of our environment.

Special economic zones, if rushed or poorly regulated, can become loopholes for environmental degradation, corporate overreach, and opaque decision-making. These zones must not be used as backdoor mechanisms to circumvent essential environmental protections, Indigenous consultation requirements, or community involvement. Bill 5, as it stands, lacks the transparency and safeguards Ontarians deserve.

At a time when the climate crisis demands bold leadership and accountability, this bill appears to prioritize short-term profit over long-term stewardship of our land, water, and air. We must not allow protected greenbelt areas, wetlands, or public lands to be exploited under the guise of economic development without rigorous independent oversight and a clear ethical framework.

Moreover, Bill 5 risks eroding public trust in our institutions. There is growing concern that such legislation enables cronyism and corrupt behaviour—allowing powerful interests to benefit at the expense of ordinary citizens. Ontario needs more transparency, more accountability, and more democratic consultation, not less.

I urge our elected officials to reject this bill or, at the very least, to pause and conduct meaningful public consultation, Indigenous engagement, and environmental review. Economic development should not come at the cost of democratic values, ecological integrity, and ethical governance.

We can—and must—do better.