We have an opportunity in…

We have an opportunity in Ontario to do something different. To revolutionize our economy. To become more self-reliant. To focus on working with each other and other provinces to lift our people up.

And I believe we can do all that while also protecting our environment and the rights of Indigenous people in Ontario.

Because Ontario has a lot of smart people. Our government has a lot of smart people.

Instead of taking the easy way out and trying to achieve these goals at the expense of our environment and Indigenous people, we need to do better. The provincial government needs to do better.

We need to look to other provinces and jurisdictions that do it right. To take the time to consider the wellbeing all of the most important aspects of our province. Not just how to address the issues that scare us the most.

We need to lead with a sense of gratitude, not a sense of fear. If we lead with fear, we won’t be any different than the US. Mr. Ford won’t be any different than Donald Trump.

Government’s role is to examine ways to move forward that are best for everyone. To discuss and consider them openly in Parliament. To give everyone the chance to have their say and ensure we’re following the values of the people of Ontario.

I believe Bill 5 and the Special Economic Zones criteria take all that away.

Bill 5 doesn’t provide enough criteria to demonstrate it supports Ontario’s environment. It doesn’t do enough to ensure the environment will be taken care of by us, the citizens of Ontario.

It doesn’t do enough to plan how Ontario can move forward and still protect our beautiful natural landscapes. Our rivers and lakes. Our wildlife. Our air. Our oceans. Instead, it opens the way for the Ontario government to trample the environment and Indigenous rights.

That’s not what I want. It’s not what the people of Ontario want.