I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed amendments to the Rebuilding Ontario Place Act, 2023. This legislation is profoundly damaging to our environment, our communities, and our democratic processes.

Exempting Ontario Place redevelopment projects from Part II of the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR) is deeply concerning. These exemptions remove the requirement for public notice and consultation, undermining transparency and silencing the voices of Ontarians who care about the future of their environment. The EBR exists to ensure that communities are informed and engaged in decisions that impact their health, biodiversity, and local ecosystems. Removing this safeguard sets a dangerous precedent.

Ontario Place is public land with deep ecological, cultural, and social value. Decisions affecting this space, whether on-site or through connected projects, must undergo rigorous environmental scrutiny and public engagement. Sidestepping these responsibilities puts short-term economic interests ahead of long-term sustainability and public trust.

This bill erodes environmental protections and democratic accountability. I urge the government to withdraw these amendments and commit to a transparent, inclusive process that respects the Environmental Bill of Rights and the people it was created to protect.