I am writing as a parent of…

I am writing as a parent of children who attend school directly beside the parcel of land currently being considered for hunting access. I cannot understand how anyone could consider permitting the use of firearms so close to a school environment where young children learn and play every day.

Regardless of whether the surrounding area is classified as rural, the reality is simple: introducing hunting activity next to a school dramatically increases risk. No recreational activity — whether for turkey, deer, or any other game — should ever be prioritized over the safety of children.

Allowing firearms to be discharged mere meters from a school is not just unwise, it is an entirely preventable danger. The potential consequences of a single mistake would be irreversible.

I strongly urge the Ontario government to reconsider this proposal and ensure that school zones remain free of hunting and firearm activity. Protecting children must take precedence over any optional or recreational land use.