I am in full support of the…

I am in full support of the extension of Section 55 ESA Regulation to a 5 year period instead of 2 years. By providing a longer timeline all stakeholders have the ability to develop, review, implement, and adapt to changes in policies and procedures. The ESA is a crucial piece of legislation and should be given as much time available to develop proper working application. Forestry has been working under Section 55 Reg for some time with results showing that these operations can still occur with species protection simultaneously. I am in full support of an expert stakeholder panel to provide advice on the development of this legislation. I would suggest that not only scientist and government representatives be a part of the panel, but also representatives from Northern Communities, First Nations and Forest Practitioners, where the impact of this new legislation is really felt. Lastly it would be in the best interest of the government to implement the extension as soon as possible to ensure that stakeholders are able to continue working/operating while policy development is under way.

[Original Comment ID: 212488]