I do not support this…

I do not support this proposal. The language in this proposal relies heavily on subjective terms that need to be clearly defined or replaced with objective, science-based language.

For example, the guidelines currently state:

“Activities are taking place in the area or are being proposed that, in the opinion of the Lieutenant Governor in Council, are or will be economically significant or strategically important to the Ontario economy.”

“The area is, in the opinion of the Lieutenant Governor in Council, no larger than necessary to encompass the activities described in paragraph 2.”

As written, this gives Cabinet broad discretion to designate any area of any size, based solely on its own assessment of economic or strategic importance—without clear thresholds or evidence requirements. Development is therefore subject to political allegiances, personal relationships (as this government has already demonstrated a proclivity towards), and the whims of the 'government-of-the-day.' Ontario is at a critical point where we need sustainable, forward thinking planning that considers the needs of all life (humans, plants, animals, as well as the health of the abiotic community) for the next several generations. Similarly, while the guidelines ask whether a “trusted proponent” has a plan to engage with Indigenous communities, they don’t require alignment with Canada’s commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the obligation to obtain free, prior, and informed consent.

Short sighted development to make a quick buck, turn around poorly built/cheap housing, or temporarily alleviate traffic congestion by encouraging further automobile reliance is the what got us into this situation in the first place. No more!!!