Over the past year, environmental organizations in Quebec and Canada have raised concerns about the state of environmental democracy, calling it a troublesome shift. In a press conference held at Maison du développement durable in Montreal, these groups highlighted the increasing number of laws that are undermining environmental protection.
Meanwhile, in Quebec City, Environment Minister Bernard Drainville is set to announce plans to reduce environmental assessment delays by half.
Environmental groups have noted a concerning trend in Quebec, pointing out the rise of legislation that diminishes the rule of law through measures like gag orders, omnibus bills, and expanded government powers.
Specific bills such as Bill 69 on energy, Bill 97 on the forest regime, Omnibus Bill 81, Bill 93 involving the expropriation of land from the municipality of Blainville, Bill 7, and the recent Constitution Bill are seen as contributing to the erosion of legal standards and democratic safeguards.
The federal government has also come under fire for prioritizing economic development over environmental concerns.
Environmental advocates are urging the public to take action to protect democracy, environmental rights, and the principles of knowledge and science that are foundational to our society.
Various organizations, including Vigilance OGM, Fondation Rivières, Greenpeace Canada, and others, have united to speak out against the weakening of environmental protection laws.
