Doug Ford is bulldozing ahead with his plans for Highway 413, risking habitat destruction, the lives of endangered species, and the health of crucial waterways.
Since he became Premier in 2018, we have seen Ford’s relentless efforts to break down Ontario’s environmental protections. Yet earlier this month, the Federal government caved to Ford's pressure and signed an MOU with Ontario – which Ford is holding up as the green light for the $10 billion project, which would cause environmental destruction and contribute to urban sprawl.
This MOU removes none of the devastating environmental impacts of Highway 413. In fact, the MOU specifically says that the Federal government does not relinquish any powers within their jurisdiction, meaning Ottawa still holds the power – and obligation – to deny federal permits under both the Species and Fisheries Acts.
It’s clear that Ford will do everything he can to avoid meeting his responsibilities to protect species and rivers in Ontario. Which is why in order to win we have to go over his head.
If thousands of us pressure our MPs and Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault, it could create the pressure to finally stop Ford’s disastrous plans to build Highway 413. Send a message to your Federal MP and Minister Guilbeault today asking them to use all their powers to protect this vital land.
