A local advocacy group is holding an upcoming rally to call on the Ontario government to repeal controversial legislation that is allowing a dormant landfill to reopen near Dresden.
Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal (C.A.R.E.D.) will host the rally on Thursday, July 3 at Rotary Park at 136 St. George St. in Dresden, protesting the passage of Bill 5.
The event is expected to feature speeches from Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles, Chatham-Kent Ward 4 councillors Rhonda Jubenville and Jamie McGrail, as well as members of Walpole Island First Nation.
The Ontario government voted to pass the “Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025,” known as Bill 5, on June 4, despite significant pushback from environmental groups, First Nations communities, and opposition parties.
As part of the legislation, comprehensive environmental assessment (EA) requirements for a long-dormant landfill at 29831 Irish School Rd. are no longer required, allowing the property owners, York1 Waste Solutions, to fast-track plans to reopen and expand the site for waste processing.
Stefan Premdas, the chair of Dresden C.A.R.E.D., said York1 employees have already been seen moving equipment and portable offices into the Irish School Road site.
He said the rally on July 3 provides the perfect outlet for members of the community to express their concerns and frustrations.
“Every community in Ontario that’s being affected by Bill 5 has been hosting similar rallies, and we wanted to… do something very visible in our community to show that we have not gone away, we are still fighting this,” said Premdas.
While the Ontario Legislature is currently in summer recess, members of Dresden C.A.R.E.D. are hoping the rally sends a message to the Ford government.
“Even this summer, while the premier is at his cottage, he will be reminded that the province is not happy with Bill 5,” said Premdas. “We would like to see Bill 5 repealed, much like the premier did with the Green Belt [scandal].”
The rally will run from 11:15 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. and is open to everyone. For more information about Dresden C.A.R.E.D., click here.