QUEEN’S PARK – Jerry Ouellette, MPP Oshawa today acknowledged that key conservation groups and outdoor stakeholders were overlooked for consultation on proposed species-at-risk legislation announced today by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

While the government claims to have consulted extensively in drafting the new bill, anglers and hunters, trappers and other conservation groups were left out of the process. The proposed legislation, however, was lauded by environmental groups in the ministry’s new release.

“This is typical of the McGuinty Liberals”, says Mr. Ouellette. “The McGuinty government has once again proven to be no friend of the anglers, hunters, trappers and outdoor enthusiasts in the province of Ontario.”

“It is absolutely imperative to undertake a full, comprehensive consultation with all stakeholders and user groups when developing this type of legislation”, added Mr. Ouellette. “I will invite all concerned conservationists to take part in the development of this bill as it progresses through the legislative process.”