The Ontario government is introducing the Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act to unlock free trade and labour mobility within Canada. If passed, this will create new opportunities, supporting economic integration across Canada and cutting unnecessary red tape. NOTO talked to MNR Minister Mike Harris’ staff about the proposed regulatory changes that may impact our sector. Parts of the proposed regulations include:
1. Allowing residents of other provinces to apply for hunting guide licenses.
2. Allowing residents of other provinces to be instructors in Ontario for the hunter education course.
3. Allowing residents of other provinces to apply for a trapline in Ontario.
We discussed all three briefly. Our immediate thought on the guide piece was bear hunting and whether this would allow non-resident guides to obtain a BMA. We were assured that there are other regulations for applications for obtaining a BMA that would prevent non-resident bear guides that did not have a business in Ontario from having this opportunity. This piece is actually focused on the area in Northwestern Ontario that requires a Canadian non-resident who wishes to guide deer hunters to obtain an $8 guide license.
On a positive note, these changes could help operators find qualified hunting guides to fill employment gaps. Any members with concerns are strongly encouraged to reach out to NOTO Staff so that we may bring these forward to MNR.
The Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, if passed, would streamline processes for project approvals to minimize delays, lower costs and set service standards for government review times while maintaining environmental standards throughout, and fulfilling its duty to consult and constitutional obligations to Indigenous communities. This would lead to changes to the Endangered Species Act, Environment Assessment Act, and Mining Act to name a few. At first look, there does not appear to have any direct or significant implications for our sector. Rest assured NOTO will keep a close eye on further proposals and implementation methods.