I am deeply concerned about…

I am deeply concerned about the proposal to repeal the Endangered Species Act and replace it with much weaker protections for species at risk under the proposed Species Conservation Act. Biodiversity underpins the health of the environment on which we all depend, helps to regulate air, soil, and water quality and to mitigate drought and flooding. Yet we are facing rapid loss of biodiversity, not only around the world but here in Ontario, where over 230 species are at risk. In Canada, habitat loss and degradation is the number one driver of biodiversity loss. By weakening species protections in favour of projects that destroy and degrade habitat, Bill 5 will only accelerate this trend.
Specifically I am concerned about the following:
1) Restricting the definition of "habitat". Habitat for any species cannot be confined to its immediate den or nesting space. It must include sufficient space for the species to carry on all its life functions, including feeding, breeding, and migration.
2) Removing the protection against harassing species at risk. Species that are subject to harassment are much less likely to thrive and reproduce. This is a fast-track to extirpation and extinction of species.
3) Removing the requirement to make a recovery plan for species at risk. This leaves protection of species at risk to the last possible moment - extirpation or extinction - when it is least likely to be able to recover. Voluntary programs are great, but cannot be relied on as a comprehensive response to the threat of species loss.
4) Leaving the designation of species at risk and those activities which require restriction to the designation of Cabinet lack transparency or scientific foundation.
5.) Another aspect of Bill 5 proposes to allow Cabinet to designate Special Economic Zones where even these modest provincial protections would not apply.
Far from "protecting Ontario," this proposal will destroy much of what makes Ontario vibrant, healthy and resilient. It must not proceed.