Mount Sainte-Anne Ski Lifts Halted: Frustrated Subscriber Speaks Out
Mount Sainte-Anne has become a controversial topic among ski enthusiasts following a recent decision by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). The authority has ordered the suspension of aerial ski lifts due to safety concerns, leaving many season pass holders frustrated.
Subscriber Outrage Over Lift Suspension
France Taschereau, a season pass holder, expressed her anger regarding the situation. She described the RBQ’s directive as a significant blow to her expectations for the ski season. “It’s a slap in the face,” she stated, highlighting her shock over the lift closure.
Closure Notification and Lack of Communication
On December 5, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR), which operates the ski area, received notification from the RBQ about the closure. Despite this, RCR continued to assure skiers that the lifts would be operational by December 13, leading Taschereau and others to feel misled.
- Date of RBQ notice: December 5
- Original lift opening date: December 13
Call for Government Action
Taschereau voiced a collective concern among skiers, urging the government to take swift action. “We have been patient for years and need a concrete action plan. The safety of our members is at stake,” she said. Many fellow skiers have echoed her sentiments on social media platforms.
Details About the Safety Inspections
In its late Friday statement, the RBQ revealed that inspections uncovered issues with the underground electrical network, which compromised lift operation safety. This has prompted the classification of the situation as an emergency, raising questions about RCR’s safety protocols in past seasons.
Refund Requests and Future Skiing Plans
Taschereau has requested a refund for her season pass, expressing her desire to ski at nearby Massif. Yet, RCR’s refund policy requires medical documentation or proof of relocation more than 150 kilometers from the ski area, complicating her request.
- Refund policy requirements:
- Doctor’s note
- Relocation over 150 km
No Restart Date Announced
As of now, no specific date has been set for the reopening of the ski lifts. RCR must first demonstrate compliance with safety conditions set by the RBQ. In the meantime, skiers are left waiting for updates, uncertain about the future of their ski plans at Mount Sainte-Anne.
