As a devoted member of the…

As a devoted member of the Ontario community, I do not approve of the Bill 66, or the proposed "Open for Business" act that allows development in Ontario's greenbelt and sensitive areas.

The most important concern is in regard to the endangerment of Ontario drinking water. Clean water is an essential need for all citizens of this province and this important resource is put at risk by Bill 66, as it allows companies and corporations to build in sensitive areas, without the protection of waterways.

We have evidence of the broad effect of contaminated water. The Walkerton Tragedy is a perfect example of what can come of exposing community water resources to harsh chemicals and bacteria due to poor waste management and water protection. With this tragedy, more than two thousand Ontario residents became sick and six died. The Walkerton Tragedy could have been prevented if the provincial government prioritized waste management and water safely. We simply cannot risk the health and safety of Ontario citizens again and Bill 66 has a large potential to be extremely dangerous and detrimental.

As well, Ontario farmers will also be affected by Bill 66, as it will harm almost two million acres of farmland. Introduction of this bill will result in a great loss of farmland and disruption of farming communities.

Lastly, transit corridors will also be at risk if Bill 66 is put in place. Transit corridors are an integral part of the preservation of wildlife populations. With Bill 66 and its inadequate restrictions of company development in sensitive wildlife areas, transit corridors will be lost and could cause irreparable damage to Ontario wildlife.

In consideration of the Bill 66, I strongly uphold an opposing stance to this bill as its benefits do not outweigh its serious harm. We must first put forth the stability of Ontario farmers, wildlife and most importantly Ontario citizens health and safety as a whole.