Join CAFES in opposing Bill 5, the Ford government's latest attack on the environment!
The Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, known as Bill 5, would allow the province to overhaul existing environmental protections to expedite new energy and infrastructure development or mineral extraction projects. The Bill would also repeal the Endangered Species Act, weaken environmental assessment laws, and expedite mining projects. In short, it would give the Premier unlimited power to pursue environmentally-destructive development projects without proper oversight.
First Nations leaders have criticized the Bill for infringing on their treaty rights, and warn that they are prepared to take legal action if it passes. In response, the Ford government put forward amendments this week saying that the government will create special "Indigenous-led economic zones", but no definition has been provided in terms of what this means.
At present, Liberal and NDP MPPs have stalled the third and final reading. The committee process will resume on Monday at the earliest.
CAFES is currently pushing for Ottawa's City Council to pass a municipal motion opposing Bill 5, following the examples of Kingston and Cornwall (see draft motion below).
There's still time to take action!
1. Sign and share these petitions:
2. Contact Premier Ford (premier@ontario.ca) and your MPP to express your concern and urge them to oppose Bill 5.
3. Share this information widely on social media, in your networks, or with local environmental groups who may not yet be aware of the bill's full scope.
