I oppose the Special…

I oppose the Special Economic Zones Act, 2025 (Bill 5).
This legislation poses a serious risk to environmental protection, public accountability, and the rights of Indigenous peoples. By exempting designated regions from established environmental laws and fast-tracking extractive projects such as those in the Ring of Fire, Bill 5 significantly weakens oversight and due process. Replacing the Endangered Species Act with a framework based on voluntary compliance further undermines evidence-based conservation efforts.

The bill reflects a concerning shift away from transparency, public consultation, and long-term ecological stewardship in favour of short-term economic gain. I urge the government to withdraw Bill 5 and extend the comment period to ensure that Ontarians can meaningfully engage in decisions that will have far-reaching consequences for land, water, and community wellbeing.

Effective governance must balance economic development with environmental integrity and respect for Indigenous rights.