To whom it may concern, I…

To whom it may concern,

I recently learned about this proposal. Frankly, I’m disappointed in myself because if I knew about it sooner I would have submitted a comment earlier.

It’s confusing as to why our provincial government banned this hunt in 1999 due to the increasing numbers of orphaned black bears, and now suggests a proposal that would cause the same issue? Just because there are certain limitations in place, it doesn’t mean these timid mammals are safe.

Please, indulge me here by imagining this scenario: It’s spring—cubs are born and far too young to scavenge in their own, let alone leave their den. Their mother must venture out on her own to feed herself in order to provide nourishment for her young. A licensed hunter comes across her and sees no cubs. They murder her because of this ridiculous hunt and limitations.

What harm did the timid black bear threaten the hunter with?

What is the point of reinstating this hunt?

Tourism?

To appease hunting lobbyists?

We already impose so much unnecessary and violent suffering to sentient cows, pigs, birds etc. who share the will to live out their full lives, just like us. (Nevermind the wildlife harmed and killed by the effects of animal agriculture.) We take away so much life just for blood sport and profit.

Over the last couple of years, I’m increasingly disappointed and embarrassed to be a young Ontario resident. This province won’t have anything left to discover if we continue to capitalize on animal exploitation and slaughter instead of improving the welfare of domesticated, “livestock” or wildlife animals.

I hope this proposal for the permanent hunt extension is reconsidered and quickly rejected. It does not instil any values of the Canadian majority.

Thank you for your time.

JV