I oppose the proposed…

I oppose the proposed changes to the Greenbelt. While I agree that there needs to be an effective plan to address the housing crisis, I am unconvinced that changes to the Greenbelt will address this crisis. In fact, the February 2022 report of the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force specifically states "a shortage of land isn't the cause of the problem. Land is available, both inside the existing built-up areas and on underdeveloped land outside greenbelts". If the government's own task force is specifically stating that land availability is not a cause for concern, there is no reason to make changes to the Greenbelt. Additionally, making changes sets a concerning precedent that may ultimately result in future changes that severely limit environmental protections.

Furthermore, some sections that the government is proposing adding to the Greenbelt are already protected. I have not seen any evidence that demonstrates that these changes will result in a net positive (e.g., the benefits from the new land that is added will outweigh the ecological losses from removing the proposed protected land). I would also like to emphasize that land is used by different animals/species and is connected- just because we move the boundaries, doesn't mean that the same ecological protections will occur. The 'Analysis of Regulatory Impacts' outlined in the proposal focuses solely on impacts to housing, but does not consider and address any ecological impacts, including potential changes to flood risks.