Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, and local MPP Graydon Smith, is responding to Green Party candidate Matt Richter’s criticism of his ministry’s consultation process.

Richter’s remarks were based on a recent report that found nearly two-thirds of consultation notices were overdue, and that the minister’s office misrepresented environmental impacts and missed investigation deadlines. The report also alleges the government misled the public about the consultation process.

Smith defended the ministry, stating that during last year’s severe wildfire season, the government was focused on protecting communities and resources, and accused Richter of politicizing procedural issues during a challenging time.

The full text of his statement:

During much of the spring, summer and fall 2023, Ontario faced one of the most severe wildfire seasons in our Province’s history, demanding our full attention to protect lives, communities, and our natural resources. As a leader in wildland fire management, other provinces facing similar challenges also looked to us for support, which we provided. We will continue to strive in meeting environmental obligations, as outlined by the Auditor General, but it’s not surprising the local Green Party candidate would choose to politicize and prioritize procedural issues during an unprecedentedly challenging fire season.