(Photo: Facebook)

Visitor services in Kouchibouguac National Park have been suspended as Parks Canada works to remove belongings in connection with an illegal occupation.

Protesters gathered on Route 117 yesterday as crews worked to remove the Vautour family’s belongings.

In a statement, Parks Canada says, “A year ago, Parks Canada respectfully requested that the illegal occupation of Kouchibouguac National Park be brought to a conclusion within a reasonable period of time. We offered to work with the Vautour family to help transition Mrs. Yvonne Vautour’s belongings and structures to a desired location outside of the national park.  This offer was refused. Parks Canada is now taking the necessary steps – at what has been evaluated to be an appropriate and safe time – to bring the illegal occupation to an end.”

Crews arrived on site yesterday, and Route 117 through the park was closed.  Park wardens and RCMP were also on the scene.

Parks Canada says the family’s belongings are being carefully boxed and securely stored outside of the national park, and the family will receive details on how to retrieve them.

Visitor facilities such as day-use areas, the Visitor Reception Centre and the Pijeboogwek shelter will be closed temporarily.

it requested the illegal occupation end a year ago and tried to work with the family to relocate belongings and structures, but the offer was refused.

The Vautours reportedly claimed they were Acadian-Metis and have permission to be on the property for more than 50 years.

But New Brunswick Mi’kmaq chiefs say rights have not been extended to the Vautours or the Acadian-Metis.