I am concerned that the…

I am concerned that the proposed new "stream-lined" process removes the triggers for archaeological assessments that help municipalities meet their requirements to protect Ontario's valuable cultural heritage resources under the Heritage Act. The new process will almost certainly result in the unintended destruction of archaeological sites. The proposal document indicates that Indigenous engagement continues to be important to the process, but the lack of triggers for archaeological assessments prevents Indigenous communities from protecting their history and the opportunity for meaningful engagement. The process favours wealthy developers at the expense of the communities.

Additionally, the changes will have economic impacts to the environmental and archaeological impact assessment industries. The changes will negatively impact these industries for the benefit of a few developers.