Forestry and logging has…

Forestry and logging has been the backbone of our small communities for years and years. My Grandfather was in logging, my Father-in-law and my family. All of the surrounding communities with in Greenstone area depend on logging as a way of life.

The 2 year extension presently being proposed by the government does not provide certainty to the sector and we feel the government needs to provide a 5 year extension. 2 years does not allow enough time due to the complexity of the policy. 5 years would provide adequate time to ensure a better understanding of the impacts of climate change on habitat, the cumulative impacts of all the ESA policy on the sector/communities and ensure socioeconomic impact analysis is conducted for every single ESA policy and all policies impacting the forest sector of both Northern Ontario and Southern Ontario.

I support the establishment of an independent Panel, as we need to ensure the Panel has members from all citizen groups. ie; First Nations, Municipal representation, OFIA, small business, practitioners, etc. We are asking the government to please ensure the Panel be composed of people who have "skin in the game". This policy must be developed by the people who are most impacted, and informed by the most credible, fact based arguments. This includes mechanisms to include community and traditional ecological knowledge from our local citizens and our Indigenous communities. Under Section 35 of the Constitution, the Crown has a duty to consult and accommodate. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry must fulfill a duty to consult with First Nations, relative to any developments that take place with in their territory.

I understand the comment period for the posting ends March 5th, however we need the government to make a final decision by March 30th. This is extremely important to us all.

Thank you.

[Original Comment ID: 212873]