I am writing to add my…

I am writing to add my objection to Bill 5's proposed exemptions from the Environmental Bill of Rights that will remove the necessary right of Ontarians to be advised of, or to comment on, any required permits at Ontario Place.

The Environmental Bill of Rights exists to ensure that Ontario's environment is protected for future generations. As this applies to Ontario Place, thousands of Ontarians have spoken out about their concerns related to protection of this fragile waterfront ecosystem. They have provided well-informed, commentary along with reasonable, community centered alternatives to the government's current plans. This move not only deprives citizens of their rights but the government of valuable community knowledge.

Bill 5 is not in the public interest, compromises the future of a critical waterfront site and serves only to benefit the private interests of two foreign companies, one of which, Therme, has questionable financials which make it unlikely to support Ontario's economy as this Bill purports. Bill 5 represents one more compromise in environmental protection, and citizen's rights to be informed, at a time when Ontario along with the rest of the planet is facing a climate and biodiversity crisis.