Etobicoke Residents Rally Against 5G Tower Amid Health Fears

UPDATE: Residents in Etobicoke are intensifying their opposition to a 25-metre 5G cell tower currently under construction at 460 Renforth Drive. Despite assurances from Health Canada that the tower poses no health risks, approximately 100 protesters rallied this past Saturday, voicing their fears about potential health hazards associated with electromagnetic fields.

The rally, held at a plaza parking lot near the tower site, was led by local resident Dwight Anderson. Residents fear the tower could lead to serious health issues, including cancer and neurological impacts. “How is it that our 1,800-signature petition can be outweighed by the signature of one city planner?” Anderson questioned, emphasizing their deep concerns about living near what they perceive as a health risk.

Residents argue that the construction process ignored their objections, with Anderson highlighting that the tower’s approval did not adequately consider local voices. The City of Toronto and the federal government have faced criticism for allowing the project to proceed despite widespread opposition.

The controversy has drawn commentary from Evidence for Democracy, an Ottawa-based organization advocating for science-based decision-making. Interim Executive Director Félix Proulx-Giraldeau stated, “When people misrepresent or suppress scientific evidence, it leads to poor policy outcomes for everybody.” He acknowledged the community’s valid concerns, asserting the need for transparency in governmental decisions regarding new technologies.

Earlier this year, Shared Tower sought permission from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISEDC) to establish the tower to enhance cellphone coverage for multiple providers. The application required a land-use plan and local consultation, but residents claim the process was inadequate. A city meeting in July 2023 showcased strong opposition from locals, particularly those living near schools and senior homes, who expressed fears about the 5G tower’s potential health effects.

While Health Canada maintains that extensive scientific studies indicate no health risks from low-level radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, residents remain unconvinced. They emphasize research linking 5G exposure to various health ailments, including headaches and insomnia.

Political support for residents has emerged, with Stephen Holyday, a city councillor, voicing that residents’ concerns should be respected. Yvan Baker, the local Liberal MP, also pledged to challenge the government’s approval for the tower, calling the plaza’s location “completely inappropriate” due to its proximity to vulnerable populations.

Despite these appeals, construction of the tower has proceeded, following a letter from the city confirming compliance with land-use requirements. Local residents feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed and accuse the authorities of failing to follow proper consultation protocols.

Proulx-Giraldeau warns that disregarding scientific evidence in decision-making poses a threat to democracy. He cited parallels with recent public health issues, cautioning that misinformation can undermine trust in institutions.

With construction underway, Etobicoke residents are left to grapple with their fears about the tower and what it could mean for their health and property values. As this situation develops, residents continue to demand that their voices are heard and that health concerns are genuinely considered.

Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent community issue.