Photo: Le Massif de Charlevoix
Le Massif de Charlevoix, a ski resort north of Quebec City, Canada announced it is closing indefinitely amid a strike by 300 of the resort’s employees. The labor stoppage by the unionized workers began on January 2, 2026, just days after the collective agreement for employees had expired. But Le Massif stayed open through the first few two weeks of the new year with limited operations until an announcement on Monday.
“We wish to inform you that on January 2, 2026, the union voted in favor of an unlimited general strike mandate, resulting in the temporary suspension of all mountain operations. In order to minimize the impacts of this strike on our guests and the community, Le Massif de Charlevoix implemented a partial and limited resumption of operations between January 6 and January 19, 2026,” the resort said in a statement. “On January 19, following the decision of the unionized employees, represented by the Confederation of National Trade Unions (CSN), not to accept either of the two recent scenarios that would have allowed a return to work, Le Massif de Charlevoix is forced to cease its regular operations.”
Employees of the resort are pushing for higher wages as well as demands related to subcontracting, sick leave, safety measures, and vacation. On Monday, the union shared its own message to members urging them not to be intimidated by management.
“The workers have spoken with one voice. They reject intimidation and threats. They want to negotiate in good faith and reach an agreement that fully recognizes the value of their work. The intimidation has gone on long enough. We will not return on our knees,” said union president Annick Simard.
“When an employer acts like a king and tries to impose its worldview through pressure and intimidation, you have to stand up collectively,” said Barbara Poirier, president of the CSN Central Council of Québec–Chaudière-Appalaches. “The workers at Le Massif are showing dignity and courage, and the whole region has an interest in ensuring they are respected.”
The major changes on Monday had many outlets, including the CBC, labeling the closure as season-ending. On Tuesday, however, the news network reported that representatives for both sides had called an impromptu meeting.
“At the request of the chief conciliator and the conciliator, the parties were invited to a meeting,” Union President Claude Choquette said.“The urgency of reaching a resolution by the end of the week remains unchanged.”
