The petition raises concerns over the Government of Ontario’s replacement of the Endangered Species Act with the Species Conservation Act. The petition indicates that the Species Conservation Act removes provincial protections for certain aquatic species and migratory birds, which results in the protection of these species falling primarily under the responsibility of the federal government through the Species at Risk Act, the Fisheries Act, and the Migratory Birds Convention Act. The petition suggests that without a corresponding increase in federal oversight and enforcement, species and their habitats might become more vulnerable.
The petition requests that Environment and Climate Change Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada indicate whether an assessment has been conducted on the impact of these legislative changes on federally protected species and what steps have been taken to address any increased risks. In addition, the petition asks whether enforcement monitoring will be expanded into Ontario, how compliance will be ensured, and whether additional federal measures are being considered to prevent a decline in species and habitat protection outcomes.