Information and Comments
Like you, and so many organizations around the province, we are deeply troubled by the government’s changes to the planning process through Bill 23 and the impact that it will have on Ontario’s natural heritage.
We’ve submitted our comments to the government and continue to pressure our local representatives to revisit this destructive piece of legislation. We encourage all of you to continue share your thoughts on Bill 23 with your MPP via email or in-person (for example brian.saunderson@pc.ola.org and rick.byers@pc.ola.org). While Bill 23 has passed, we need to let our representatives know how many Ontarians remain deeply opposed the Bill – and that they must revoke the legislation. Voters will remember this attack on the environment come next election.
As part of your emails or conversations with PC MPPs, consider including the following key messages, or feel free to adapt from any of the documents from aligned organizations listed below:
- Bill 23 blocks public participation in planning decisions cutting community members out of the process.
- We object to the government’s plan to limit public participation in the planning process, including the removal of public information meetings.
- Ontarians have every right to comment on the decisions that impact their communities – the interests of developers do not come first.
- Bill 23 erodes support our Conservation Authorities – and they have an important role in protecting the environment.
- Conservation Authorities play a critical role in disaster mitigation and land conservation. We need them to minimize the impacts of development and preserve Ontario’s natural heritage.
- Responsible developments aren’t impeded by Conservation Authorities – so why does Bill 23 allow developers to fast-track irresponsible plans?
- Bill 23 meddles with fair processes.
- The government’s changes to the Ontario Land Tribunal Act shut out participation and unfairly help wealthy proponents. It’s anti-democratic and it offends our norms.
- The government must withdraw their changes to the Act and preserve the OLT’s impartiality, legitimacy, and fair processes.
To send to your MPP, you can find their contact information HERE. In South Georgian Bay, your MPPs are:
- Brian Saunderson (Simcoe–Grey); brian.saunderson@pc.ola.org
- Rick Byers (Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound); rick.byers@pc.ola.org
To read the ECA’s submission on Bill 23 to the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure, and Cultural Policy, please use the link HERE.
Check out some of the comments from aligned organizations: