By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Caroline Proulx, Quebec’s minister of tourism and minister responsible for the Lanaudière region, along with the Eastern Townships caucus, has confirmed financial support totaling more than $34.3 million for local tourist projects.
This investment was announced in Orford April 29 in the presence of regional representatives including François Bonnardel, minister of public Security and minister responsible for the Eastern Townships region; Isabelle Charest, minister responsible for sports, leisure, and outdoor activities and MNA for Brome-Missisquoi; Gilles Bélanger, MNA for Orford; and André Bachand, MNA for Richmond.
The Eastern Townships, renowned for its robust tourism industry with nearly 1,400 businesses and over 20,500 jobs linked to the sector, have seen an economic contribution from tourism amounting to $794 million, according to an April 29 press release.
At the announcement, Proulx emphasized the importance of local tourism as a major economic sector that enriches Quebec and highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering its development to ensure all regions benefit.
“It takes entrepreneurs, it takes businesses that, when we attract these tourists, will come to the events, but will be able to have access to dining, to our farmers, to our food, to our hotels, to our guesthouses, winter tourism, nature, adventure,” she said.
“It is with immense pleasure that the Government of Quebec is proud, very proud to support our Quebec businesses in the region today.”
Bonnardel expressed satisfaction with the governmental support which will enhance the region’s attractiveness and visitor appeal, particularly praising projects such as the four-season sports and activities at Ski Sutton, which align with its mission.
Investments include a significant grant to the Museum of Nature and Sciences in Sherbrooke for a new permanent exhibition aimed at promoting innovation and raising awareness about humanity’s impact on Earth.
The region’s tourism appeal is further bolstered by projects like the development of services at the summit of Mont Prospect and enhancements in Mont Sainte-Cécile, both poised to attract outdoor enthusiasts.
