Five former chairs of a committee advising the federal government on endangered species have released an open letter expressing worries about potential modifications to the Species At Risk Act. They argue that these changes could result in the deliberate extinction of endangered species in Canada. Over 600 species are currently protected under this legislation, and the proposed alterations could significantly weaken the act’s effectiveness, as stated in a recent press release by the scientists.
The individuals, who formerly chaired the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), sent the letter to the government last month. COSEWIC is an independent group that evaluates species at risk of extinction and recommends their inclusion in endangered species legislation. By making the letter public, the scientists hope to prevent Canadians from being complicit in the intentional extinction of wildlife species in the country.
The letter coincides with the government’s consideration of broad environmental regulation changes, including revisions to the Species At Risk Act, aimed at expediting the approval and construction of major projects. Proposed alterations include allowing major projects to proceed without undergoing a “jeopardy test” mandated by law if they are deemed to be in the national interest. This proposal has been criticized by David Green, a former COSEWIC chair and biology professor at McGill University, who views the changes as unnecessary and detrimental to endangered species protection.
The suggested modifications would grant the government the authority to establish “federal economic zones” for pre-approving industrial development and potentially exempt pipelines from federal impact assessments. Although Bill C-5 currently enables expedited approval processes for projects in the national interest, these new changes could further diminish environmental protections.
The scientists highlighted concerns about a new West Coast oil pipeline project, which could have severe consequences for species like the southern resident killer whale and Chinook salmon, both listed under the act. The proposed pipeline route overlaps with critical habitats of these species in the Salish Sea, raising fears of habitat destruction and increased risks to their survival.
Expressing shock at the proposed legislative changes, David Green emphasized the significance of the Species At Risk Act and its potential impact on endangered species. Meanwhile, experts like UBC professor Kathryn Harrison view the proposed amendments as setting a concerning precedent by granting the government unprecedented authority to bypass existing environmental laws.
As of now, there has been no official government response to the scientists’ letter. The Privy Council Office has affirmed the government’s commitment to species conservation under the Species at Risk Act and emphasized the need for economic growth and export diversification. Despite ongoing trade tensions with the U.S., the government believes fast-tracking projects is crucial for the country’s economic interests.
The government has extended the public consultation period following criticism from Indigenous groups and environmental organizations. Formal legislation based on the proposed changes is anticipated after Parliament resumes in September, but experts like David Green urge the government to reconsider, emphasizing the irreversible consequences of species extinction in Canada.
