In an announcement made to her Facebook yesterday, Mayor of Montreal, Valérie Plante did not shy away from her discontent at the provincial government's approach - or lack thereof - to the gradual reopening of the city.
The Mayor has requested a clear, step-by-step plan to re-establish Montreal's event and entertainment industry.
"Montreal is a city rich in events: tours, festivals, conventions, and large-scale shows. For it to remain so, event organizers must have clear guidelines from the Government of Quebec and Public Health in order to plan for the full reopening of their activities."
- Mayor Valérie Plante
According to Plante, although the province has begun its gradual re-opening, there are still several unanswered questions, particularly for business owners and event coordinators.
In considering the potential for summer events, the Mayor asked for clarity on what kind of safety measures and public health guidelines will be enforced. Further Plante asked for insight on what kind of financial assistance and government funding will be initiated to help compensate the performance halls and venues that have been forced to run at a capacity of 50%.
For Plante, it is vagueness and uncertainty that are no longer tolerable.
"For the past two years, the catering, hotel, business tourism and entertainment industries have been hit hard by the pandemic."
- Mayor Valérie Plante
In closing, the Mayor emphasized the cultural industry's importance, and necessity to Montreal's economy. Plante stated that she will continue to defend the interests of the cultural industry.
"When we meet the needs of the cultural and events community, it is the heart of the metropolis that beats. And when the heart of the metropolis beats, it is the economy of all of Quebec that benefits", said Plante.
