I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Proposal 025-0380, which aims to amend the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) and introduce the Species Conservation Act, 2025. While I acknowledge the intent to streamline processes for infrastructure development, the proposed changes pose significant risks to Ontario's biodiversity and the integrity of species protection.​

Concerns:

Shift to Registration-First Approach: Allowing proponents to commence activities immediately after registration, without prior environmental assessment, undermines the precautionary principle. This could lead to irreversible harm to species and their habitats before any oversight occurs.

Repeal of the ESA: The proposal suggests repealing the ESA to enact the Species Conservation Act, 2025. This move could weaken existing protections and create uncertainty around species conservation efforts that have been established over the past decades.

Potential for Increased Habitat Destruction: By streamlining approvals and reducing oversight, there is a heightened risk of habitat loss, which is a primary driver of species decline. The proposed changes prioritize economic development over ecological sustainability.

Recommendations:

Maintain Rigorous Environmental Assessments: Ensure that any proposed activities undergo thorough environmental assessments before approval to prevent unintended harm to species at risk.​

Strengthen, Not Weaken, the ESA: Rather than repealing the ESA, consider enhancing its provisions to better balance development needs with conservation priorities.​

Engage Stakeholders: Involve Indigenous communities, conservation experts, and the public in meaningful consultations to ensure that species protection measures are comprehensive and culturally sensitive.​

Ontario's rich biodiversity is a treasure that requires vigilant protection. I urge the government to reconsider the proposed amendments and prioritize the long-term health of our ecosystems over short-term economic gains.​