The proposed changes by the…

The proposed changes by the MECP to the Environmental Assessment Act is yet another regressive step backwards in Ontario's ever-weakening environmental protections. Yet again, the government of the day continues to make the commercial interests of developers, miners and industrial coalitions their number one priority, above all else, including the citizens of this province.

It is 2024 - not 1924. The fact that this regressive conservative government still doesn't understand the importance of protecting our natural environment (or rather, what will be left of it under this government) and our numerous endangered and threatened species, is mind-boggling. The MECP’s abdication of responsibility for upholding the ESA and protecting species-at-risk in order to pave the way for easier development and mining exploration is simply criminal. Why does the MECP even exist anymore? Since the Regressive Conservatives took power, the Ministry has become a meaningless entity, paving the way for slash and burn policies.

The entire purpose of the ESA is to STOP the relentless destruction and degradation of habitat critical to maintaining biodiversity and protect declining populations of Ontario's flora and fauna. It's easy enough for developers and miners to work the system in their favour, given the lack of government oversight and enforcement of current regulations, they don't need more assistance from the MECP. And we definitely don't need to see ESA protections weakened just so the government can waste taxpayers money on a needless new multi-lane highway. TAKE THE TOLLS OFF HIGHWAY 407 (you know, that east-west multi-lane highway, just north of the 401, that most drivers avoid using because of the TOLLS!)

Stop your war on the environment and start making decisions that are based on the long-term health and well-being of the citizens of this province, which starts with a healthy natural environment, not more highways, urban sprawl and mining roads.