I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposal to remove environmental assessment requirements for the York1 waste disposal site project through the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025. This move is reckless, short-sighted, and a direct threat to public health, environmental protection, and democratic accountability.

Environmental assessments are not bureaucratic obstacles—they are essential safeguards designed to evaluate the potential harms of major industrial projects before they happen. Eliminating this requirement for the York1 project undermines public trust and silences the voices of the communities most impacted by this proposal, including residents living near the proposed expansion in Dresden.

This site involves the processing of thousands of tonnes of non-hazardous waste daily, potential inclusion of hazardous materials like asbestos, and 24/7 industrial operations near homes, schools, and childcare centers. To exempt such a project from environmental review is irresponsible and dangerous.

Fast-tracking this development without proper scrutiny or community consultation violates core principles of environmental justice. The people of Ontario have a right to be informed and to weigh in on projects that affect their health, safety, and quality of life.

I urge the government to reverse this exemption and uphold the mandatory environmental assessment process for the York1 waste disposal project. Our environment and communities deserve nothing less.