Ontario's government has introduced Bill 5, aimed at expediting environmental approvals by reworking laws protecting at-risk species. Premier Doug Ford argues this is necessary to boost the province's economy. The proposed legislation would eliminate some provincial protections for certain aquatic species and migratory birds covered by federal law, claiming it reduces bureaucratic redundancy. However, environmentalists express serious concerns that these changes may weaken existing protections and lead to increased federal intervention, amid fears that the new law could adversely impact the environment.
Currently, proponents must get approval under both federal and provincial species legislation, causing unnecessary duplication...Under the new legislation, proponents will not need separate provincial approval for activities affecting aquatic species and migratory birds already protected by federal legislation.
The government has portrayed the current system as slow and cumbersome, driving away resource and development companies from Ontario and hindering economic growth.
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