Le Massif ski resort in Quebec’s Charlevoix area is set to welcome back skiers this Saturday after a three-week-long strike by unionized workers concluded. The union members overwhelmingly approved a contract proposal during a vote, with 91 percent in favor, which was presented by a conciliator on Thursday. In a statement sent via email, Le Massif de Charlevoix announced that employees would resume work on Friday, and operations at the mountain would recommence the following day. The resort expressed gratitude towards the conciliation team for facilitating an agreement that addressed the concerns of both parties and allowed for the preservation of the winter season.
The appointment of a conciliator by the Labor Ministry on Tuesday was prompted by stalled negotiations between the two sides. Union president Annick Simard conveyed optimism about the future, emphasizing satisfaction with the agreement and the anticipation of reopening the mountain. The new collective agreement includes a provision for protecting against inflation, ensuring that wage increases can be adjusted if the price index surpasses the agreed-upon raises. Simard highlighted the significant cumulative increase of 19 percent over five years, underscoring the union’s pursuit of improved working conditions and salaries.
Following the closure of the ski area earlier in the week due to the contract dispute, local businesses and officials expressed relief at the resolution, citing concerns about the impact on tourism and the economy. Grocery store owners Stéphane Coutu and Lison Harrisson, who operate a store near the ski hill, welcomed the news from Le Massif management and expressed gratitude for avoiding further economic strain. Serge Bilodeau, the mayor of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, where Le Massif is located, emphasized the community’s readiness to recover from the setbacks caused by the strike and attract visitors.
Simard acknowledged the challenges faced by those affected by the strike and reassured that the union did not intend for the mountain to remain closed. Encouraged by the fresh snowfall, she emphasized that the season was far from over and looked forward to a successful winter ahead.