I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Schedule 10 of Bill 66, which introduces “open-for-business by-laws” that would circumvent many of the requirements under several laws to ensure fair, consistent and transparent public engagement in land use decisions and protection of water, natural heritage and human health in Ontario.

It is frustrating to see our government attempting to pass a bill that forsakes long-term sustainability and environmental protections for short term economical gain. I work in Environmental Consulting and I can say from experience that even with the environmental protections that are currently in place under the Planning Act, the amount of corruption involved around large-scale development projects makes me feel sick. Big business must factor the health, natural heritage and quality of life of ordinary Ontarians in its operations.

Please do not remove protections on our natural areas and wildlife when these resources are already so exploited. Please respect the health of the environment and Ontario Citizens. Please acknowledge the importance of long-term environmental sustainability. Please do better than this.

Please remove Schedule 10 from Bill 66.

Sincerely,

A deeply concerned Ontario citizen and Wildlife Biologist