I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed legislative amendments that would pave the way for the Town of Wasaga Beach’s Tourism Enhancement Proposal. While economic development and tourism are important, these changes pose a serious threat to Ontario’s environmental integrity, public lands, and long-standing legislative protections.

The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, and the Historical Parks Act were enacted to safeguard our natural and cultural heritage — not to facilitate commercial development in sensitive ecological areas. Weakening these protections to accommodate urbanization or commercial tourism sets a dangerous precedent that could lead to the gradual erosion of conservation priorities province-wide.

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is not just a recreational area; it is a vital and fragile ecosystem that supports species at risk, including the Piping Plover. Increased development, construction, and traffic associated with this proposal could significantly harm the delicate dune ecosystems, water quality, and wildlife that Ontarians have worked hard to protect.

This proposal also undermines the public trust. Ontario parks are crown assets, held for the benefit of all Ontarians and future generations. Altering legislation to support a local tourism project opens the door to private interests gaining leverage over public lands — a shift that is deeply troubling and fundamentally opposed to the spirit of our parks system.

I urge the government to reject these legislative amendments and instead prioritize sustainable tourism strategies that respect ecological limits and uphold the intent of existing conservation laws.