Thank you for the…

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments.
I strongly oppose Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025 because it would erode the rule of law by dismantling or undermining civil liberties and many key legal protections that safeguard our environment, human health and Indigenous rights. Bill 5 contains proposals that contravene democratic principles, and some parts eliminate government transparency and accountability.
I object to the province identifying poorly defined entities, so-called “Trusted Proponents” (without any criteria or qualifications identified) who would have unprecedented powers including immunity from, or ability to bypass/ignore laws, regulations and constitutional requirements. No person or entity should be enabled to be above the law in a democratic society.
I object to the creation of Special Economic Zones which would be exempt from provincial laws and regulations. I object to identifying projects such as the Ontario Place project, Dresden Landfill and Eagle’s Nest mine for exemptions, would not be subject to public scrutiny, exempted from the Environmental Bill of Rights and/or provincial laws and regulations. All exemptions from provincial law or regulations must be reserved for rare or exceptional circumstances and must be subject to extremely close oversight, ongoing scrutiny and time limits.
I object to repealing the Endangered Species Act and replacing it with weaker legislation. It is wrong and counterproductive to create a narrower definition of habitat for species. We are in the midst of a crisis where biodiversity is being lost. If the areas where wildlife migrate, forage for food and reproduce are not protected, then that wildlife is not protected. Harm to endangered species needs to be prevented, not mitigated.
It is unacceptable for the premier and members of cabinet to choose when they themselves, or others are required to obey the law or not.
At no time should Indigenous Treaty Rights be ignored. It is a Constitutional requirement for free, prior, informed consent to be obtained from First Nations, Inuit and Metis for proposed changes. This must not be ignored, bypassed, and under no circumstances should this requirement be treated as if it is red tape.
Decisions about development, mining, infrastructure, and other large scale projects of economic significance need careful oversight. They must not be undertaken without adequate studies and adequate consultation. There is always a need to ensure potential harm is prevented and the public good is served, without exception.
Underlying Bill 5 is a false “jobs vs. environment” narrative. Strong environmental laws underpin sustainable, long-term economic prosperity. I do not support exempting development projects from archeological assessments. It is still important to complete these assessments even if the development(s) "potentially advance transit; housing; health and long-term care; other infrastructure; and such other priorities as may be prescribed". Archeological assessments often trigger the duty to consult with Indigenous communities and First Nations governments.
I strongly support the submissions by the Canadian Environmental Law Association (link provided).