I am opposed to the Special…

I am opposed to the Special Economic Zones Act, 2025 because it is unwise and undemocratic. Over many years in Ontario we have passed legislation democratically after long and serious deliberations. These pieces of legislation cannot be put in suspension lightly, nor should our democratically elected Legislature be left out of the decision-making process.

I understand we have serious problems to solve, such as housing, and projects that are essential to our economic prosperity, however, we cannot put ourselves in the position of solving one problem while creating a more serious one. It is folly to override environmental assessments, public health, labour rights, etc., to speed up a project. Laws were put in place to deal with problems that have not disappeared and suspending these laws will not suspend the problems. The best decisions are made when all stakeholders have a say in a project, not when our democratic rights are denied.

Bill 5, which includes the Special Economic Zones Act, 2025, is a Trump-style approach to solving problems. It is a concentration of power in the hands of a few, a disregard of knowledge, and a rolling back of democracy.