Ontario Nature: Media Statement on Bill 108

QUEEN'S PARK, ON, May 3, 2019 /CNW/ - Bill 108, the omnibus bill tabled by the Government of Ontario on May 2, reflects neither the values nor the long-term interests of Ontarians who understand the importance of a healthy environment. Pandering to influential developers, the government is prepared to undermine environmental protections set out in several key pieces of legislation including Ontario's Endangered Species Act (ESA). It has grossly misled the public, pretending that proposed changes to the ESA would improve outcomes for species at risk. In fact, Schedule 5 of Bill 108, if passed, would delay, limit and/or remove protections for most Ontario's threatened and endangered species and their habitats.

"Schedule 5 would be better named the Extinction Schedule," says Caroline Schultz, Executive Director of Ontario Nature. "It's all about pushing aside our most vulnerable plants and animals to make room for sprawling development and unchecked industrial activity. The government is greasing the wheels of destruction."

Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. It connects thousands of individuals and communities with nature through close to 150 conservation groups, and 30,000 members and supporters across the province. For more information, visit ontarionature.org.

SOURCE Ontario Nature