Special economic zones are a…

Special economic zones are a reckless and undemocratic policy. While current policies are not perfect, having none is a decision that mimics Trump’s politics. Our environment, Indigenous Peoples
and Canadian workers are not for sale. Both the Ring of Fire and the Dresden landfill site have
complex needs, and to throw out all regulations because they are difficult is lazy. Ontario can
and must do better than this.
I am very concerned about the slippery slope and the precedents it sets. Will all of Ontario's resources become a special economic zone? When reading the policy, it loops in an endless cycle of double-speak and meaningless amendments, which all seem to be able to have exceptions placed upon them. The ministers would be too powerful under this model, making choices with no public consultation and the ability to override municipal laws. The ability to ignore requirements because a proponent is trusted is deceitful. If they are so trusted, why wouldn't they be able to follow the regulations that he rest of the province is held to? The lack of oversight gives zero incentive for proponents to do what is right. Proponents and politicians will not have to live in a lifeless environment with poisoned water and soil, but the Ontarians who live in or near these communities will.
The lack of Indigenous consultation is not only alarming but unconstitutional. It is their land! To sneak around consultation requirements because the regulations are rendered meaningless, causing the duty to consult not to be triggered, is a cowardly move on Ontario's behalf.