Ontario Nature Blog
Receive email alerts about breaking conservation
and environmental news.
© Lora Denis
Tufted titmouse © Bill McDonald
Bill 197 unravels environmental protections, including the following:
It is also important to note, that on July 6, 2020, the United Nations released a report linking environmental degradation with future pandemics. One of the drivers of disease is “unsustainable utilization of natural resources accelerated by urbanization, land use change and extractive industries.” Riding roughshod over our environmental laws and policies is not the way to recovery.
Bill 197 undermines the democratic process:
It is important to note that Bill 197 was the fourth omnibus bill since the government took power two years ago – a modus operandi that mitigates against public scrutiny of and involvement in government decision-making.
Northern leopard frog © Jozsef Szasz-Fabian
Bill 197 undermines the democratic process! How can we allow this to happen! There are so many places in Ontario which need protection, always. It boggles the mind that this can even be conceivable! STOP BILL 197 NOW!!!
It was part of an ominous bill and a lot of things were passed with our discussion or input. Thanks for working on this.
The environment and the protection of it are the number one issue of our time. This government does respect that,
I support Ontario Nature in its fight to preserve our environmental laws from encroachment by the government
The covid 19 pandemic has taught us how important it is for our mental health, to be able to go outdoors and enjoy our natural spaces. We must elect leaders who will protect the environment.
Why haven’t we seen any petitions on this issue pre or post passing of Bill 197. I have sent an email to my MPP, Environment Minister, Premier, Liberal Leader, NDP Leader and Green Party Leader expressing my concern and requesting a review under the Environmental Bill or Rights.
The gutting of environmental regulations are a hallmark of Conservative governments. Please stop voting these clowns in.
I support Ontario Nature.
I’m at a total loss. What can we do if not raise our voices? How can we make the Ontario government listen if they just bulldoze over the people in protest against it? I know that BC’s premier John Horgan would not ignore the people’s voices. This is just a blanket bill that totally cuts out the time needed for sharing public opinion and reduces time to destruction of irreplaceable habitats and creates less work for government workers. I believe this bill is completely off the mark in terms of what most people would want. I know I’m preaching to the choir by replying here, but honestly what are we (the ones against this bill) to do?
Ashlea
Hi Ashlea,
I completely agree! And although, posting a comment on this blog seems like preaching to the choir, it’s always important to remind us of the need to speak up for nature when provincial legislations seek to endanger biodiversity. This advocacy work can be frustrating and tiring, but that’s how we spur change. Together we can hold decision-makers to account! If you haven’t already, check out our Action Alerts site to learn about the impacts our advocacy work has had thanks to advocates and supporters like you: https://ontarionature.org/take-action/advocate-for-nature/
Best,
ON Melina
Please do not rush Bill #197 through . I understand the desire to simplify things in these times but our environment is getting more fragile over the years and much needs to be considered . We cannot make nature, wildlife , plants ,etc return once they are lost to us.
We will be watching how this is handled and considering where we place our votes in future . And while I’m at it what is being done with Longterm care to prevent abuse, neglect, and possible COVID return ? There really needs a better oversee of for profit places, better care for those on limited pensions and better staff conditions,numbers, and pay .
All our health care providers Reg. Nurses should see more than 1% ! How todo retain them and encourage others into the profession otherwise ? Our heroes ! Treat them accordingly. Thank you.
I didn’t vote for them last time, and I most certainly will NOT vote for them next time. Their lack of respect for the environment is disgusting! Their duplicity with this omnibus Bill is obscene.