Discussion Paper - How are we going to consult with you?

We are working with Ontarians to enhance legislation for Ontario’s protected areas. The Ministry of Natural Resources recognizes its Constitutional obligations to Aboriginal people, and will ensure that consultation opportunities are available for Aboriginal peoples.

Consultation will include:

Providing a series of key legislative proposals as a basis for consultation.
Making a discussion document available for review and comment electronically through the Environmental Bill of Rights Registry and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ontario Parks websites.
Providing the opportunity for people to email or mail in comments and suggestions.
Meeting with key stakeholders.
Meeting with Provincial Treaty Organizations and inviting input from Aboriginal communities.
Holding public open houses in nine communities across Ontario (Thunder Bay, Timmins, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, North Bay, Huntsville, London, Toronto and Ottawa).

The Ontario Parks Board of Directors, whose members are appointed by the Minister of Natural Resources, will review input we receive. The Board will provide recommendations to the Minister. Draft legislation will then be prepared for introduction in the Ontario Legislature.

How can you get involved?

A questionnaire has been developed that makes it easy for you to provide your views about the legislative proposals, and to make your own suggestions about protected areas legislation. A copy of the questionnaire is attached. An online version of the questionnaire is available and can be easily accessed by following links at www.OntarioParks.com or www.mnr.gov.on.ca.

The questionnaire will also be available at open houses being held in selected locations across Ontario. If you choose to fill out the attached questionnaire please send it to the following address:

Protected Areas Legislation Review
Ontario Parks
P.O. Box 7000
300 Water Street
Peterborough, Ontario
K9J 8M5