As promised in the 2012 Ontario budget, MNR is being transformed and "streamlining" and "modernization" of the resource use approvals process is being planned. The opportunity for public comments began Sept 27 and ends Nov 13.
The EBR posting with a PDF link to the policy change proposal...
http://www.ebr.gov.on.ca/ERS-WEB-Extern ... anguage=enThe first paragraph in the proposal includes a focus on conservation and natural areas protection:
Quote:
MNR manages the province’s forests, lands, waters, fisheries, wildlife, aggregates, salt, oil and protected areas on behalf of the people of Ontario with a focus on:
Conserving the diversity of plants, animals, fish and their habitats
Protecting natural areas
Supporting the sustainable development and use of resources
Protecting people, property and communities from forest fires, flooding, and other natural hazards