I strongly disagree with…

I strongly disagree with this proposed bill. I understand the pressures from fluctuating international relationships have led to the provincial government wanting to strengthen the Canadian economy, but I do not think this should be done in a way that degrades our natural ecosystems. The changes set out in this bill would change the way we protect wildlife in a way that will lead to habitat destruction, regardless of its importance, in situations where funding and/or governmental connections are strong. This seems like a very biased way to carry out business. Allowing expedited and occasionally unchecked development in areas of important habit will lead to multiple species extinctions and massive disruption to the invaluable ecosystem services which the environment provides us. I understand the wish to support the Canadian economy, but it is a goal which should be achieved using other methods. For example, increased funding to governmental bodies providing environmental permitting could allow consulting agencies to get boots on the ground faster to put into play projects to support development. I work in the environmental industry and the hang ups on projects have almost always been due to months waiting for permit application reviews with the MNR and other bodies due to understaffing. I believe this bill will not benefit the average Ontarian. For this reason I hope that the provincial government will stop its implementation and instead create a different, greener approach forward which will lead to a more sustainable future.