The Capital Regional District (CRD) is currently taking a Salt Spring Island family to court for refusing to relinquish their rooster. This action has wider implications as it is intended to set legal precedent empowering CRD bylaw officers to deny other rural residents of the Southern Gulf Islands the right to have poultry flocks which include roosters. The issue at hand is not just about the right to keep livestock, but it directly impacts food security in the region.

The CRD's intent is to make this a precedent-setting case enabling officers to enforce against anyone with a rooster whose neighbour complains. This prosecution, funded by our tax dollars, issues out of the bias of the Chief CRD Bylaw Officer who fails to acknowledge the legitimacy of 'hobby' farms and backyard flocks. The Chief Bylaw Officer claims that small farms are not 'real' farms. At issue is also the undemocratic nature of having Victoria-based bylaw enforcement treat the Southern Gulf Islands as a suburban extension of Greater Victoria, thereby robbing individual island communities of the democratic right to decide for how to address issues pertaining 'rural character'...and sounds...for themselves.

Roosters play an essential role in maintaining a healthy and sustainable backyard flock. They protect hens from common predators such as raccoons and minks, ensuring the safety of these egg-laying birds. Moreover, roosters are necessary for reproduction, allowing for the growth and replenishment of flocks.

According to Statistics Canada, British Columbia has seen an increase in households experiencing food insecurity from 11.8% in 2007-08 to 12.4% in 2011-12 (Source: Statistics Canada). In light of this growing concern, it is crucial that we support all forms of local food production.

We urge the CRD not only to reconsider its stance on backyard roosters but also recognize their importance towards achieving food security within our community. Please sign this petition if you believe that every rural resident should have access to secure sources of locally produced food.