I support the proposal to…

I support the proposal to extend the Section 55 Regulation by two years and the creation of an independent expert panel to provide advice on a long-term solution for species at risk. As a workable solution for integrating the CFSA and the ESA has yet to be achieved to date, the extension will allow for additional time to determine suitable and appropriate solutions without rushing forward with less than ideal measures. Because integration has been difficult to date, the creation of an independent panel and potential local pilot projects should also help in proposing workable local solutions to achieve common goals between the ESA and CFSA.

The CFSA already considers wildlife and biodiversity values, including species at risk, within forest management and this should be recognised as contributing to the means of meeting the intent and requirements of the ESA. An innovative SAR strategy should consider a landscape-scale approach to SAR recovery that takes into account the needs of multiple wildlife species, similar to that promoted by the CFSA. Recognizing these existing processes and regulatory mechanisms would also reduce duplication and allow for efficiencies.

[Original Comment ID: 213308]