The Parti Québécois (PQ) is publicly pressuring the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government to step in and take charge of the ongoing situation at the Mont-Sainte-Anne ski resort. The political call to action comes in the wake of a delayed opening for the popular winter destination, which was caused by failed inspections from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ).
A Season Starts with Setbacks
The 2025-2026 ski season at Mont-Sainte-Anne, a major attraction located just outside Quebec City, did not begin as scheduled. The critical delay was a direct result of the resort not passing mandatory safety inspections conducted by the RBQ. While specific details of the failures were not fully disclosed in the initial report, such inspections typically cover essential infrastructure like ski lifts, building codes, and emergency systems.
The postponement left season pass holders and tourists in limbo, disrupting travel plans and impacting local businesses that rely on winter tourism. The incident has cast a spotlight on the operational and maintenance standards at the resort, raising concerns about visitor safety and management efficacy.
Political Pressure Mounts
In response to the operational crisis, the Parti Québécois has formally called on Premier François Legault and his government to "regain control" of the situation. The opposition party's demand implies a need for more direct provincial oversight or intervention to ensure the resort meets all regulatory standards and operates safely for the public.
The PQ's stance suggests they view the issue as more than a simple business hiccup, framing it as a matter of public interest and safety that warrants government attention. The call was issued on December 15, 2025, as reported by The Canadian Press, indicating the political response was swift following the news of the delayed opening.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
The situation at Mont-Sainte-Anne touches on several key areas for Quebec: tourism economy, regional employment, and the government's role in regulating major recreational facilities. A prolonged closure or recurring safety issues could have significant financial repercussions for the region.
All eyes are now on the CAQ government to see how it will respond to the PQ's challenge. Potential actions could range from increased regulatory scrutiny and deadlines for compliance to more drastic measures if the safety concerns are deemed severe enough. The government's handling of this file may also become a point of political debate in the National Assembly.
For now, skiers and snowboarders await a clear resolution and a new opening date, while the provincial political parties debate the appropriate level of government involvement in the management of a key piece of Quebec's winter tourism infrastructure.
