I object in the strongest…

I object in the strongest possible way to the proposed exemptions from the Environmental Bill of Rights that will remove the right of Ontarians to be advised of, or to comment on, any required permits at Ontario Place, on or off site, to support the project.

The Ford government is attempting to add these exemptions to bypass accountability for the environmental devastation that is happening and will continue to happen on public land if this spa project goes forward.

The Environmental Bill of Rights exists to ensure that Ontario's environment in all its forms is protected for future generations. As this applies to Ontario Place, thousands of Ontarians have spoken out about their concerns related to protection of this fragile waterfront ecosystem. They have provided well-informed, intelligent commentary along with realistic and reasonable alternatives to the government's current plans. This move not only deprives citizens of their rights but the government of valuable community knowledge.

The proposal does not serve the people of Ontario it compromises the future of this critical waterfront site and serves only to benefit the private interests of foreign companies. Instead it represents one more compromise in environmental protection, and citizen's rights to be informed, at a time when Ontario along with the rest of the planet is facing a climate and biodiversity crisis.