Gerard Aucoin, born and raised in Kippens, Newfoundland, Canada is a recognized member of Qalipu Mi'kmaq First Nation. He is a long time resident of Kippens, NL and has maintained a small farm for personal use for the last twenty (20) years. The land on which he lives and works, has been utilized for agricultural and farming by his family for over 150 years and prior to the establishment of the Town of Kippens. 

In 2012,  the Town of Kippens implemented a town plan for future development in which non-conforming properties were permitted to continue their existence. In March 2018, The Town of Kippens issued three (3) “Stop Work and Removal Orders” in which Mr. Aucoin was ordered to remove all livestock (animals), fencing (including longers, signs and advertising), and two sheds from his property by April 20, 2018.  The town subsequently rescinded the orders, however, that was short lived. 

In September 2018, a nearby developer filed an appeal against the town at the Western Regional Appeal Board in respect to rescinding the orders. The appeal hearing was postponed until November 2018. While awaiting the appeal hearing, on October 15, 2018,  the Town of Kippens has re-issued "removal orders" against the property and owners of animals, sheds, fencings, and signs.

Food sovereignty is a major issue in Canada and particularly for indigenous people. The actions by the Town of Kippens has caused undue hardship, anguish and harm to the Aucoin family. Further, it is a threat to Mr. Aucoin’s existence, survival as a farmer, and to his animals. 

Together we can make change, and preserve the Aucoin family farm which has been a long standing integral part of the local community. If you support Gerard in his effort to have the orders rescinded and the harassment cease please make your support known to the Town of Kippens, Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment, Farm Industry Review Board , Member of Parliament and the local MHA by signing this petition.