I am deeply opposed to the…

I am deeply opposed to the proposed amendments to the current Endangered Species Act since they severely reduce the the likelihood of survival and protection of rare and threatened species in Ontario as outlined below:

● The definition of "habitat" will be narrowed to only include the immediate area encompassing breeding or nesting grounds. Much larger areas beyond reproductive zones are required for life-sustaining activities like foraging, hunting and mating.;
● The listing of species- at-risk must be determined by an independent advisory panel based on the best available science and not be discretionary based on a Minister's or Cabinent's decision;
● Species that overlap with federal jurisdiction must not be removed from the provincial list. The Ford government states this amendment “will remove duplication for species already receiving protections federally”. However, de-listing should only be allowed to occur if the scientific advisory panel deems that adequate federal protections are actually in place and not just planned or proposed.
Additionally, provinces have an obligation to develop complementary species conservation initiatives under the "Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk";
● As it stands now, proponents will simply have to enter a description of their activities in a Provincial Registry to allow them to proceed. Instead well-defined conditions and legally-binding requirements should be in place before any development occurs;
● Recovery strategies under the new Act will be eliminated making it nearly impossible for the survival of our most threatened and rare species; and
● There is no legally-binding provision in the new Act to obtain free, prior and informed consent from affected Indigenous communities.

Ford continues to introduce regressive legislation that is designed to systematically dismantle environmental protections in this province, to permit unbridled development without proper government oversight. Our natural heritage faces multiple threats including invasive species, habitat loss and degradation from destructive industrial activities, poaching and most notably, climate change. Government backsliding on environmental safeguards will only amplify these threats.