(Toronto). The Ontario Forest Industries Association (OFIA) has revealed its true colours in its recent attempts to sabotage the government’s landmark new Endangered Species Act (ESA). The new legislation, which has been hailed by environmental groups as some of the best in the country, will use a science-based approach to update the list of species at risk and make specific provisions for their protection. Yet the OFIA, which represents forest companies operating in Ontario, is actively trying to derail the legislation in order to minimize restrictions on destructive forest operations.

“The OFIA’s position on the Endangered Species Act tarnishes the reputation of the entire forest industry,” explained Catharine Grant, Earthroots’ Forest Campaigner.  “Some forest companies are now showing themselves to be committed to sustainable resource use. It is unfortunate that they are now associated with attempts to kill this crucial piece of legislation.”

The new Act will update Ontario’s endangered species legislation for the first time in more than 30 years. Since the first Endangered Species Act was introduced in 1973, more and more species have become threatened without being officially listed. In addition, wildlife habitat has been degraded significantly since that time, which has put increasing pressure on species that are on the brink of extinction. The new Act takes these factors into consideration, which is why it is being praised by conservation groups. Considering approximately 40% of Canada’s endangered species reside in Ontario, it is essential that the province has a strong Endangered Species Act.

The majority of forestry in Ontario takes place on public land, which is managed in trust for the citizens of the province. The OFIA would like to operate on these public lands without making provisions for species at risk. This could push threatened species, like the Peregrine Falcon and the iconic Woodland Caribou, to extinction. Without updated endangered species legislation, Ontario will lose wildlife species forever.

“Earthroots encourages the OFIA to do the right thing for Ontario and support this important piece of environmental legislation,” said Grant. “The forest industry appears to be moving forward on these issues. It’s time for the OFIA to start considering sustainability instead of short-term profits. Otherwise, it will be left behind.”

For more information, contact Catharine Grant, Earthroots’ Forest Campaigner, at 416-599-0152 ext. 13 (office) or 416-819-7424 (cell).

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