I do not support this bill. …

I do not support this bill.

This bill is a movement in the wrong direction. We should be improving protections for wildlife and ensuring that development occurs wisely, lawfully and without exploitation.

The presence of species-at-risk are indication of healthy habitat which provides benefits to humans (flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, water purification, storage, and conveyance).

It is possible to protect biodiversity while building economic development. An example is building roads with wildlife overpasses and underpasses. Ontario already has its own guidelines for wildlife passages but this should be a standard (see attached link).

The creation of "Special Economic Zones" removes all accountability. Nobody should be above the law. This creates a risk to public health, the safety of laborours and the environment. This could also undermine Indigenous sovereignty and the constitutional right to free, prior and informed consent.