As a local resident who…

As a local resident who regularly swims and paddleboards near Ontario Place, I’m deeply concerned about the proposed exemptions from the Environmental Bill of Rights. These changes would remove the public’s right to be notified about, or provide input on, permits related to the redevelopment—permits that could have a direct impact on the health and accessibility of our shared waterfront.

Ontario Place isn’t just a parcel of land—it’s part of a living ecosystem that supports wildlife and offers city dwellers rare, meaningful access to nature. I know this firsthand because I spend time in that water. Any development in this area should be subject to the highest environmental scrutiny, not less.

These exemptions would bypass essential safeguards and cut the public out of decisions that affect our shoreline, our water quality, and our long-term environmental wellbeing. Ontarians deserve transparency and a say in how this public land is used—especially when the changes could benefit private, foreign interests at the expense of our natural heritage.

We’re in the midst of a climate and ecological crisis. Now is the time to strengthen protections, not remove them.