I’m strongly against Bill 5,…

I’m strongly against Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act. This bill puts Ontario’s natural environment, democratic process, and Indigenous rights at serious risk.

Bill 5 would scrap the Endangered Species Act — one of the few effective tools we have to protect threatened wildlife and their habitats. Replacing it with vague goals and unenforceable measures won’t protect anything. It’s not real modernization — it’s just deregulation that prioritizes short-term industry profits over long-term environmental and community health.

Another major concern is the proposal to create “special economic zones,” which would let the government approve large-scale developments without proper environmental reviews, public feedback, or Indigenous consultation. This shortcut benefits a few and seriously weakens transparency, accountability, and respect for Indigenous rights and treaties.

Ontarians haven’t asked for weaker protections or fewer opportunities to shape decisions about our land, water, and future. Bill 5 would silence communities, sideline science, and undo decades of environmental progress.

I urge the Ontario government to withdraw Bill 5 entirely and instead work together with environmental experts, Indigenous leaders, and the public to build stronger — not weaker — environmental protections.

Protecting nature doesn’t hold back economic growth — it’s what supports a healthy, resilient, and fair society.