Metrolinx forced to suspend tree cutting again at Osgoode Hall

Tree cutting on the grounds of Osgoode Hall has once again been suspended pending the outcome of a hearing on Tuesday.

Metrolinx had resumed clear cutting of a number of centuries-old trees on Saturday before the Ontario Court of Appeal ordered a halt to the work after the Haudenosaunee Development Institute (HDI) filed an appeal of an injunction that was dismissed on Friday.

HDI claims Indigenous rights holders have not been meaningfully consulted and that Metrolinx has once again “failed to meet expected standards of public engagement.”

Superior Court Justice Charles Hackland dismissed attempts Friday by both the Law Society of Ontario and HDI to prevent the provincial transit agency from removing a dozen mature trees, which Metrolinx says is necessary as part of construction for the new Ontario Line. The reasons behind Justice Hackland’s decision are expected in the next few days.

Work crews arrived on the site early Saturday morning to start the process of removing the trees but the buzz of chainsaws was halted around 10 a.m. after HDI filed its appeal with the court.

BOLD – the Build Ontario Line Differently community coalition – says this is about more than just the fate of several trees.

“The choice for Metrolinx is clearcut. Engage in real consultation and change your tactics or expect more delays as the people of Toronto and all those impacted by the project fight you at every stop,” the group said in a statement.

Metrolinx said the court hearing is “yet another delay as we work to build the transit system Ontarians need and deserve.”

Metrolinx contends the southwest section of the Osgoode Hall grounds is the only space able to accommodate the “keyhole” — a construction shaft — which is needed for future excavation and construction, adding it is working to protect as many mature trees as possible and plans to restore the space after construction with new vegetation and landscaping.