By Vincent Rioux-Berrouard – Local Journalism Initiative
–
The Côte-Nord Chambers of Commerce are asking for consistency from the government regarding measures and restrictions to counter COVID-19.
The Alliance of Chambers of Commerce of the Côte-Nord ensures that it understands the need to remain vigilant in the face of the pandemic, but questions the relevance of maintaining certain health measures given the epidemiological situation of the Côte-Nord.
The co-president of the Chamber of Commerce of Sept-Îles-Uashat-mak-Mani-utenam (CCSIUM), Gabriel Striganuk, explains that the lack of clarity in government directives can be a source of frustration for companies because they must in several cases enforce the measures.
“We want a return to the conditions we had last fall. Even if some of our companies succeed in operating under the imposed conditions, the fact remains that others are at the end of their rope. Just think of restaurateurs who operate at a quarter of their dining room capacity, it is currently unjustifiable in our region to accept only two adults per table in our restaurants. As for the bar owner, they cannot even operate point, ”says Kateri C. Jourdain, also co-president of the CCSIUM.
The president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Manicouagan, Antonio Horta, asks for his part that the Quebec government present a plan for economic recovery. “During a meeting with Minister Marie-Ève Proulx, we had confirmation that we would be called upon to sit on a regional revival committee, we are still awaiting this invitation. The government has repeatedly told us that the Côte-Nord is a key player in the region’s economy. It is time to put words into action, ”explains Mr. Horta.
–
