The protected area of the…

The protected area of the Greenbelt and that throughout Ontario is crucial for the health and quality of life of Ontarians. This Greenbelt surrounds the GTA and protects the waterways that feed into Lake Ontario, along with other locations from which large proportions of the population get their drinking water. Additionally, it protects sources of drinking water for future populations. It is critical that we protect this land so that we will have clean water not only for today but for years to come. On top of the access to clean water that the Greenbelt provides us, it allows for an area of reduced air pollution surrounding the metropolis of the GTA. With health conditions related to poor air quality on the rise, it is crucial that we protect this land so that Ontarians have access to clean, fresh air to maintain a high quality of life. This increase in exposure to poor water and air quality would only be amplified by repealing the Toxic Reduction Act, which again reduces Ontarians' exposure to harmful chemicals. Not only does this protected land improve quality of life by providing clean air and water and reduce our exposure to toxic chemicals, but it improves quality of life by reducing urban sprawl and providing natural and recreational areas for Ontarians. Because of the above reasons, I strongly oppose the Bill 66, as it would irreversibly hinder the health and quality of life that are currently experienced by Ontarians. The Walkerton Water Crisis of 2000 proves as an example of what happens when government is not present to preside over decisions that put our health in danger. This legislature is in place to protect the health of Ontarians, and the ability to bypass these regulations in aim of economic development will ultimately hurt the health and quality of life of all Ontarians.