The Endangered Species Act…

The Endangered Species Act and proposed regulatory framework contemplated for broad natural landscapes in Ontario is an unbalanced approach unparalleled in terms of the certain socio-economic effects of its full application in Northern Ontario. The regulatory framework has been developed in isolation of northern citizen knowledge, values and participation despite repeated commitments from former Liberal Ministers to do just this. The previous temporary exemptions granted to the forest and agriculture sectors point to the untenable and flawed nature of ESA framework in its current form. Extension of the temporary exemption is critical in order for the communities and stakeholders affected can participate in a meaningful process to develop workable solutions in line with Ontario's proven, workable legislation and policies embodied under the Crown Forest Sustainability Act. It is my hope that the proposed expert panel does just this. Note that it extremely ambitious and likely impossible for the important work of the proposed expert panel to be completed in two years. A five year temporary exemption is more realistic as evidenced by the pace of work during the previous 10 years.

[Original Comment ID: 212709]