I have significant concerns…

I have significant concerns about the Special Economic Zones Act, 2025 (Bill 5), which gives the Ontario government sweeping powers to override environmental protections, exempt hand-picked companies from laws, and sideline Indigenous voices within “Special Economic Zones” (SEZs) — in the name of “economic growth”

Ontario’s environment and communities deserve better. The Special Economic Zones framework leaves our province’s air, land, and water at the mercy of political discretion — not the law.

The Ford government’s plan benefits hand-picked “trusted proponents”, while putting Ontarians’ health, safety, and democracy at risk.

"Trusted proponents" must have independent checks and have a verifiable good record on environmental compliance. They should not be hand-picked by the Minister.

Health and environmental risks are critical, and there must be a requirement to ensure that risk mitigation strategies actually work, with independent oversight on designated projects within SEZs.

There must be a mechanism to affirm Indigenous rights and consultation requirements.

I am calling on the government to strengthen — not weaken — Ontario’s environmental safeguards. Decision-makers must be held accountable. All Ontarians rely on the land, air and water to support and sustain ourselves. The long term consequences of short term decision making that irreversibly damages our environment is critical to all people, animals and plants that share this land. Ensure that we protect the health and wellbeing of future generations by protecting our environment.