I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the amendments to the Endangered Species Act in Ontario. As someone who has studied ecology as well as environmental assessment, I know that what is being proposed are shortcuts for economic gain over the wellbeing of natural ecosystems which benefit us all.

I did extensive research projects on the ESA in my classes and even years ago it was clear that the current legislation does not do enough to protect species at risk. The Endangered Species Act is one of the few tools we have to protect wildlife and it should be be made stronger, not repealed. Replacing it with vague “goals” and unenforceable measures will lead to the further decline of species already on the brink. This is deregulation that puts short-term industrial gain ahead of long-term ecological and community health.

These proposed changes undermine transparency, accountability and the duty of the province to uphold Indigenous rights and treaties.

I urge the Ontario government to withdraw Bill 5 in its entirety and instead work with environmental experts, Indigenous leaders and the public to strengthen — not dismantle — our systems of environmental protection.