A popular ski resort northeast of Quebec City may still salvage its ski season following recent developments. Le Massif de Charlevoix faced a setback when the resort management and unionized employees failed to reach an agreement, leading to the cancellation of the ski season. However, there is renewed hope as both parties have been summoned to a meeting by conciliators to resolve the ongoing dispute.
The president of Groupe Le Massif, Claude Choquette, confirmed the urgency of finding a resolution by the end of the week remains a top priority. The resort had to cease operations after union members, who have been on strike since January, declined the employer’s offer to renew the collective agreement.
Serge Bilodeau, the mayor of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François where Le Massif is located, expressed concern over the impact of the resort’s closure on the local economy. He emphasized the significance of the ski season to the region and highlighted the potential repercussions on businesses and tourism.
Local businesses, such as a nearby grocery store, have already felt the effects of the ski season’s cancellation. Owners mentioned that Le Massif is a crucial business partner, and its closure will have lasting consequences on the community.
Visitors, including those who had traveled from afar, expressed disappointment over the unexpected end to the ski season. Ori Reiss, a tourist from the U.K., shared his dismay over the situation, noting the financial and personal implications for his son who had planned to work as a ski instructor at the resort.
Despite the challenges posed by the ski season’s closure, tourism officials in the area are exploring alternative ways to promote Charlevoix and mitigate the impact of the strike. Mitchell Dion, the general director of Tourisme Charlevoix, remains optimistic about attracting visitors through the region’s diverse offerings beyond skiing.