Amid a family trip to Le Massif in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, Andrew Maas was surprised to see his kids sledding down a ski slope on an improvised sled made from a large plastic bag. The mountain faced a complete shutdown due to a strike by mountain workers demanding better pay, increased vacation and sick leave, and improved safety gear.
During the strike, nearby visitors found themselves with limited activities. Maas mentioned how children resorted to sledding down hills using makeshift sleds, which, although entertaining, was not what they had paid for. The mountain’s policy indicates that Maas should receive a refund for the lost ski day after prepaying for tickets.
Following several days of strike action by the Syndicat des travailleuses et travailleurs du Massif, Groupe Le Massif announced a partial reopening of select runs. The Camp-Boule sector will be open on specific days and times for pass holders, Club Med Charlevoix guests, Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective members, and guests staying at accommodations associated with Le Massif de Charlevoix.
Despite the uncertainty caused by the strike for businesses reliant on tourism in the region, Groupe Le Massif’s phased reopening aims to resume operations responsibly, with managers overseeing the slopes. Only beginner and intermediate runs will be accessible, as black diamond and double black diamond trails will remain closed.
Ori Reiss from Northwest London had his mid-January travel plans disrupted by the strike, causing concerns for his holiday. Reiss, an avid skier, had meticulously planned his trip with friends, opting to stay at Club Med Charlevoix. Despite the limited slope availability, he is hopeful for a resolution to the strike and plans to proceed with his travel arrangements.
The partial reopening of Le Massif has been welcomed as a positive initial step by Philippe Hamel, CEO of chalet rental agency MonsieurChalets. While some skiers in cottages on the hill can still enjoy skiing, the limited slope availability poses challenges for ski enthusiasts given the short ski season in Quebec.
Mitchell Dion, general manager of Tourism Charlevoix, emphasized the importance of having Le Massif operational during this peak season due to its international appeal. The closure and potential impact on businesses in the area have raised concerns about the region’s reputation and economic losses. The union at Le Massif expressed its willingness to negotiate and reach a resolution with the employer amid the ongoing strike.
