March 4, 2019 ERO number:…

March 4, 2019

ERO number: 013-4143
Notice type: Policy
Act: Endangered Species Act , R.S.O. 2007
Posted by: Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks

Dear Sir or Madam:

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment regarding the 10th Year Review of the Endangered Species Act, 2007.

As noted in your "Proposal details" text, 243 species are currently listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario List. This is an alarming number and one that is growing rather than declining. One would think that, given this situation and the alarming decline in the populations of many species worldwide, the focus on this review would be on strengthening protections under the Act and improving enforcement. Governments at all levels have an obligation to protect the long term interests of citizens which include a healthy environment and the protection of biodiversity.

However, in reading the Discussion Paper, it appears that the majority of proposals put out for discussion relate to expediting the approval process for activities that may prove harmful to species at risk and weakening the government's obligations with respect to the protection of such species.

I support the comments and suggestions put forth by Ontario Nature with respect to this review process and strongly encourage the government to give priority to enhanced protection for species at risk rather than proposing measures that exacerbate an already alarming trend of species decline.

Thank you, once again, for the opportunity to provide input.