I strongly disagree with the…

I strongly disagree with the proposed amendment, as it not only exacerbates Ontario's housing crisis, but also promotes prejudice. By restricting livable space, this amendment reinforces inequality and effectively grants exclusive access to waterfront areas to those with higher incomes. It is a clear example of the government prioritizing the interests of wealthy groups over those who are less affluent.

This injustice is made all the more apparent by the fact that barge-based homes do not infringe on the rights of nearshore landowners, nor do they pose a threat to navigation. Furthermore, the increasing cost of housing over the past decade has made near shore permanent or semi-permanent accommodations unattainable for average Canadians, rendering this amendment a direct contributor to the housing crisis.

This policy is yet another instance of the government favoring the top 1% of the population, and it undermines the rights of citizens to navigate, moor, or occupy parts of the nearshore environment. Its unjust nature is undeniable.

Moreover, this proposed amendment has nothing to do with safety, as legal measures are already in place to ensure safe navigation. Therefore, it is clear that this proposal caters to the interests of wealthy groups/landowners at the expense of everyone elses rights under current navigation laws.