Business owners in Beaupré are expressing their frustrations over delays in the opening of Mont-Sainte-Anne ski resort. The community highlights the negative impact of this postponement on their businesses, especially as the ski season approaches. The concerns are exacerbated by recent safety-related closures of ski lifts enforced by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.
Impact of Mont-Sainte-Anne Opening Delay
Sylvain Laroche, co-owner of Brasserie des Monts, shared his discontent. He stated that local businesses depend on the ski season for success. “It feels like the last straw,” Laroche noted, indicating that the closure is affecting customer turnout at his establishment.
Restaurants like Chez Bolduc are also feeling the pinch. Owner Rémi Bolduc expressed that the uncertainty surrounding the ski season has hit hard. “November is always a tough month, and we look forward to ski season to boost our business,” he remarked.
Local Sentiment and Economic Concerns
The stall in the ski season has raised concerns among local merchants. The holiday season is especially crucial for tourism-related businesses. Patrice Drouin from Auberge et Campagne emphasized that losses incurred during this period are irrecoverable throughout the year.
- Concerns over safety led to ski lift closures.
- Local businesses depend heavily on ski resort operations.
- The holiday season is critical for revenue, particularly for tourist attractions.
Frustration among season pass holders has also surfaced. Many feel betrayed by the resort’s operator, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR). “We have always skied safely, so we wonder why this situation continues,” lamented frequent skier France Taschereau.
Political Response
Provincial representative Kariane Bourassa has addressed these concerns. She has established a crisis team to expedite communication and ensure that RCR adheres to safety regulations. “The management of the mountain has been irresponsible, impacting our businesses and community. Nothing is off the table,” Bourassa stated.
Business owners like Sylvain Laroche are urging for decisive action against RCR. Laroche expressed skepticism regarding RCR’s commitment to promised investments in the resort. “Why would they follow through now?” he questioned.
As the opening delay of Mont-Sainte-Anne continues, local businesses remain in limbo, anxious about the ski season’s future. The community hopes for swift resolution to restore their economic stability.
