I strongly oppose Bill 5,…

I strongly oppose Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act. In my opinion this legislation poses a serious threat to Ontario environment and democratic processes and also Indigenous rights.

Bill 5 proposes to repeal the Endangered Species Act which is one of the few tools we have to protect at-risk wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. Replacing it with vague “goals” and unenforceable measures will lead to the further decline of species already on the brink. This deregulation puts short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and community health.

Equally alarming is the creation of “special economic zones” that would allow cabinet to approve major development projects without proper environmental assessment, public input or Indigenous consultation. This short cut for development undermines transparency, accountability and Ontario’s duty to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties and, I fear is being done to benefit a select favoured group in development and industry.

The public of Ontario have not asked for weaker protections or less say in decisions that affect the province’s land, water and future.
It is very possible to achieve both the development that is necessary and needed and the environmental protections that are vital for our present and our future.

Bill 5 would silence community voices, marginalize science and erase decades of hard-won environmental progress and should not be supported.

I urge the Ontario government to withdraw Bill 5 in its entirety and instead work with environmental experts, Indigenous leaders and the public to strengthen — not dismantle — our systems of environmental protection.

Protecting nature is not a barrier to economic growth. It’s the foundation of a healthy, resilient and just society.