+3 Bill 5, formally titled…

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Bill 5, formally titled the "Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025," is facing widespread criticism for its potential impact on environmental protections and Indigenous rights in Ontario. Specifically, concerns include the replacement of robust permitting processes with a simple online registration, allowing developers to bypass environmental reviews and potentially harm endangered species and their habitats. Additionally, the bill's potential to create "special economic zones" where developers could be exempt from various laws, including environmental ones, is a major point of contention, according to Ecojustice.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the concerns:
Weakening Environmental Protections:
The bill replaces the current permitting process for developers with a simple online registration, which doesn't require environmental reviews or the consideration of alternative solutions. This could allow developers to proceed with projects that harm endangered species or destroy protected habitats without proper oversight, according to Ecojustice.
"Special Economic Zones":
Bill 5 allows the creation of "special economic zones" where designated developers could be exempt from numerous laws, including environmental regulations, according to Ecojustice. This raises concerns about the potential for these developers to operate with minimal environmental responsibility and without regard for Indigenous rights, notes Ecojustice.
Impact on Indigenous Rights:
The new registry process and the lack of environmental reviews could hinder the ability to protect Indigenous rights and ensure the proper consultation with First Nations communities, according to Ecojustice.
Lack of Public Consultation:
The bill was unveiled with minimal notice and is being rushed through without proper public consultation, which is another source of criticism, notes Ecojustice.
Potential for Damage to Critical Habitats:
The new law could allow for the destruction of vital peatlands, such as those in the Ring of Fire, which play a crucial role in fighting climate change, notes Ecojustice.