As a concerned citizen, I…

As a concerned citizen, I strongly oppose this legislation and I'm appalled that the Government of Ontario, supposedly acting in the best interests of its constituents, would suggest that Bill 5 is the best way to protect Ontario's economy. This Bill puts the well-being of citizens and our environment at grave risk.

This proposed legislation is the worst yet in a long line of environmental deregulations and species protection rollbacks enacted by this Government, in addition to legalizing extreme executive overreach and a complete lack of respect for our very democracy.

1. Gutting the Endangered Species Act: Bill 5 replaces scientific review with political will. Protections for habitats and species are narrowed or eliminated while allowing delays or refusals to list at-risk species.

2. Automatic Project Approval: Developers no longer need permits; an online registration form suffices to begin construction. There is no requirement to consider alternatives or disclose plans publicly. This won’t fix our housing issues - those folks who are most in need can’t afford a new build far from urban services.

3. Long-term Impact: These weakened protections may cause irreversible ecological harm, while promoting a landscape of unregulated development. If this Bill is the response to the trade war with the United States, there won't be much of Ontario or its economy left to protect! Farmland and green space is precious, and we need all of it.

Finally, Bill 5 completely disregards Indigenous right of consultation; why is Reconciliation being quashed from this Government's mandate? This concerns every Canadian.

Repeal Bill 5 - it is not in the best interests of Ontarians, and the damage it will do cannot be undone.