I strongly oppose Bill 5,…

I strongly oppose Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act that seriously threatens Ontario’s natural heritage, democratic processes and Indigenous rights.

I note that Bill 5 would empower the government establish “Special Economic Zones” where provincial laws, regulations, instruments, municipal by-laws, and municipal instruments can be suspended to enable “trusted proponents” to develop projects: How can we have places in Ontario where the rule of law is suspended for favoured individuals and corporations? Is this not an invitation to corruption on one hand, as well as a notice that an elite, not bound by law, is to be treated preferentially?

The bill further erodes the autonomy of municipalities and their communities.

The Bill would allow the cabinet to evade public accountability by shielding government decisions from civil liability. This is outrageously oppressive to those who might be wronged by the provisions in the bill. They include those harmed environmentally, in matters of health, or who might otherwise enjoy labour legislation protections, including workplace safety.

Bill 5 repeatedly fails to acknowledge indigenous rights, including the Crown’s Duty to Consult, and the principle of free, prior and informed consent outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The Act is conveniently vague about who might quality to be a ”trusted proponent”, thus further encouraging corrupt practices within government.

Bill 5 is not about building a better Ontario. I urge the Ontario government to withdraw this bill in its entirety and, instead, to work with environmental experts, Indigenous leaders and the public to strengthen — not dismantle — our systems of environmental protection