A concerning situation is currently unfolding at Rivière-Ouelle Camping, where several employees are denouncing what they describe as an intolerable work environment marked by allegations of harassment and a series of dismissals strongly contested by the Union of Service Employees (UES800), affiliated with the Quebec Federation of Labour (QFL).
In response to the situation, a special meeting of union members was held to review the events and determine the next steps. During the meeting, members voted 87% in favor of a strike mandate that could extend to an unlimited general strike.
The union wishes to emphasize that any actions under consideration are not directed at customers or seasonal workers. Rather, they are intended to ensure that the rights of affected members are respected and that all employees are provided with a safe and respectful workplace.
ALLEGED MISCONDUCT AND AWAITED INVESTIGATION
Since 2025, staff members have reported witnessing or experiencing conduct they consider inappropriate, including repeated and unwanted physical contact in the workplace.
On April 9, these concerns were reportedly brought to the attention of Benoit Martin, President of the Board of Directors of the Rivière-Ouelle Tourism Corporation, in an effort to uphold the fundamental right of workers to dignity and personal integrity in the workplace.
“Despite the seriousness of the allegations, no formal investigation has been launched by the Board of Directors to clarify the situation and ensure a healthy and safe work environment. Instead, it appears that the employer is trying to get rid of the problem,” said Frédéric Morin, Union Representative for UES800.
LONG-SERVING EMPLOYEES AND UNION REPRESENTATIVE DISMISSED
In the days following these events, two employees who had filed harassment complaints, each with more than 35 years of service, saw their employment abruptly terminated. The Board of Directors maintains that these were voluntary resignations, a claim strongly disputed by both the employees involved and the union.
The situation became even more concerning when Nancy Gagné, President of the local union unit, was also dismissed by the Board of Directors after attending the workplace in the course of her union duties.
“All I am asking for is respect and recognition for members who have dedicated years of service to this organization. Today, that respect is being seriously called into question,” said Nancy Gagné, President of the union unit.
“This decision is particularly serious because it directly affects the exercise of union rights,” added Mr. Morin.
Grievances have been filed to challenge these dismissals, seek the reinstatement of the affected individuals, and obtain compensation for the losses incurred.
A WORK ENVIRONMENT IN NEED OF REBUILDING
These events are taking place amid changes in the campground's management. The union believes that this transition should have been accompanied by measures aimed at improving the workplace climate and addressing the concerns raised by members in a serious and constructive manner.
The individuals involved are well known within the community and have worked there for many years.
“This situation must be treated with the seriousness it deserves. The issues that have been raised have a direct impact on the workplace environment. We urge the employer to take the necessary steps to resolve the situation promptly,” concluded Marie Deschênes, Acting President of UES800.
The union reiterates its commitment to resolving the situation through a respectful and constructive process, in the best interests of workers as well as the broader Community.
Translated into English by SEU800 from the original French-language press release.