Thank you for the…

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this proposed change. First, I would like to emphasize that the cautionary principle should be use when it comes to protecting the biodiversity of fauna and flora of Ontario. If we think something might further impact the decline in biodiversity which always threatens the functions of a smooth running ecosystem we should stop. Secondly, the rules for the ESA were already loosened (2013), and in-fact should be re-tightened to eliminate the exemptions given to industries such as forestry, mining, extraction of gravel etc. Thirdly, if I am correct in thinking a landscape approach as mentioned in the 10 yr review means putting aside land to protect species at a gross level, as long as is it significant land for biodiverse flora and fauna I agree. Fourthly, I think the Minister should not have the ability to grant exceptions, this should be handed off to the environment commissioner of ontario. Fifthly, going slow in granting development permits is not a bad thing. Sixly, permits should only be allowed when it can be proven that another activity will benefit a species at risk and needs to be audited and proven. Seventhly, bees and other insects provide net benefit to humans through plant germination, animals such as beaver keep a healthy water environment, animals all along the food chain keep the environment healthy. For instance, wolves eat deer which protect river banks. Eightly, climate change is already having a devastating effect on all animals and plants. e.g. fires such as the California Laguna, Tunnel or cedar fire were once in a lifetime events, now fires that size are happening yearly. We need to act now to further protect the biodiversity of our planet with more restrictions not fewer. Finally, the 10 year review document said Ontario has fresh water, land and air, but this is not 100% true. Towns such as Iroquois falls, moonbeam and Kapuskasing, and cities like Toronto have issues with sewage disposal. Our air while better since closing down coal plants is a world resource were C02 is now above 400 ppm, and I have personal experience picking up litter in our streets, parks, conservation areas, on highways, and in remote areas, things are not as good as we pretend. We need to further protect our environment and all participants in it who need our help to protect them.