The proposed changes to the…

The proposed changes to the Ontario Heritage Act and its regulations are unacceptable. Bill23 does not address the issue of affordable housing in Ontario. Building more homes in Ontario does not mitigate the rising costs of buying and renting houses in Ontario. Wetlands in Ontario have been disappearing for years, we have lost the large majority of our wetlands and these proposed changes will be sure to eliminate the remaining wetlands in Ontario. It does not matter the size of a wetland, we know that they all matter in the fight against climate change. Wetlands are one the greatest carbon sinks and aid in the fight against climate change through their ability to sequester carbon, most specifically peatlands. In addition, they filter water and manage flood risks for many communities. Wetlands also provide crucial habitats for many at-risk species, as well as being a common hunting ground for many Ontario hunters.

Eliminating the ability for Conservation Authorities to consider the risks of pollution, flooding, and more when evaluating land for development essentially makes these organizations useless. Many CA's have already expressed their worries that this bill will nullify their roles within their organizations. Ontario CA's are unique to Ontario's heritage and have provided us with many positive benefits. Why take that away? This bill essentially allows for development to be unrestricted, which leads to so many negative impacts on our environment. This bill is creating a level of chaos within our system that will lead to so many other uncertainties. In addition, this proposal completely disregarded any Indigenous input and puts First Nation territories and waterways directly at risk.

We know that climate change is the most pressing issue in society, and our officials have been trying to enact positive change to help mitigate the risks. This bill feels like the rug was pulled out from under the average working Ontarian that is concerned about our environment. This proposal will create a disaster that the young people of Ontario will be left to clean up. Please reconsider.

Sincerely,

A very concerned 25-year-old resident of Ontario who studies and works in the environmental industry.