At a time when water…

At a time when water conservation and land use protections are needed most in a rapidly changing climate, removing areas from Provincial Parks is an absolutely terrible decision. The need to balance economic boosts to Wasaga Beach should not come at the cost of the environment. What draws tourists to the area is the sprawling beaches and protected lands, not more pavement.

More and more land is privatized, leaving Ontarians with less and less access to quality free public spaces. The long-term protection of our Provincial Parks is the best investment economically, socially and environmentally. It is much more costly to restore than it is to preserve. The long-term implications of this decision should not be taken lightly.

This sets a dangerous precedent for other Provincial Parks. If we do not keep our parks public, we are giving away our future prosperity and natural adaptation measures.

I do not support this proposal.