Ontario Legislation to “Modernize” Environmental Approvals

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Minister of Environment, John Gerretsen

McGuinty’s Liberals are now looking to even further “streamline” the process for approving wind projects.    “Modernizing” might be double-speak for doing away with rules developers must follow.   Perhaps it really means doing away with meaningful public input to fast-track wind developments.

John Gerretsen  insists on blindly denying there are any problems with wind turbines.   Now a “new, simplified process for activities that could be categorized as either lower-risk, less-complex or that have standard requirements” is being enacted.

You have until April 1st to comment on these changes (EBR Registry number 010-9143)  CLICK HERE TO COMMENT

Also EBR Registry Number: 010-9235  is open for comment until May 30/09.  The proposed draft technical bulletins are presented for public comment. They are:
Technical Bulletin #1 Guidance for preparing the Project Description Report as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09
Technical Bulletin #2 Guidance for preparing the Design and Operations Report as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09
Technical Bulletin #3 Guidance for preparing the Construction Plan Report as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09
Technical Bulletin #4 Guidance for preparing the Decommissioning Plan Report as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09
Technical Bulletin #5 Guidance for preparing the Consultation Report as part of an application under O.Reg.359/09
Technical Bulletin #6 Required Setbacks for Wind Turbines under O.Reg.359/09

2 thoughts on “Ontario Legislation to “Modernize” Environmental Approvals”

  2. My Response:

    In consideration of the complexities of the environment and interlinked cause & effects between mans activities and nature. I am concerned that the streamlining of the process, will mean a diminishment of overwatch checks and balances between the various departments and ministries.

    I believe that streamlining or modernization of the process will open Ontario to injurious decisions that will be made without full due diligence being
    afforded to the process.

    I further suggest that such a process will expose the government to additional liabilities and legal actions as a result therein.

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