The Association of Outfitters of Abitibi-Témiscamingue is asking the government for fair treatment for outfitters with non-exclusive rights on state land in free territory.
“I would like to point out that the problem we are experiencing in our region is also experienced elsewhere in other regions of Quebec such as Mauricie and Outaouais, where there are many outfitters with non-exclusive rights,” explains the president of the Association of Outfitters of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Yves Bouthillette.
“The main problem is that the socio-economic context has changed a lot in recent years. We can’t do the same things our parents did when they developed the niche product of outfitters. These territories offer outdoor adventures to many people who would not otherwise have access to the forest. Outfitters have been pioneers with these outdoor activities for over 50 years. »
In the process of requesting fair treatment, they received the support of Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue and the Fédération des pourvoiries du Québec.
“For decades, we have contributed to the economic activity of the region. We offer people the chance to discover the forest and the activities associated with it. All regions brought tens of millions of dollars into the economy and significant sums into state coffers. »
A SIMPLE REQUEST
There are two types of outfitters in Quebec. There are outfitters with exclusive rights which, in a given territory, control the activities that take place there. In the case of outfitters with non-exclusive rights, the only control is over their facilities.
“As we live without having control of the territory, we are asking the government for one very simple thing, that is, to be able to purchase the land on which our facilities are located. Currently, if you want to obtain financing, transfer [votre] company to [vos] children who will need financing or even sell the premises to a third party, financing from financial institutions becomes impossible since you cannot give guarantees.
“All we are asking of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (MRNF) is to agree to sell us the land where the main accommodation units of our outfitters are located on the free territory. We would also like the possibility of converting the commercial resort lease for outfitting purposes to a private resort lease. »
A NEW COMPETITION
The MRNF has relaxed its rules regarding private vacations.
“The government wants to develop it at high speed, by opening the machine for the sale of private vacation land, including to non-residents.
“Also, the owners of these leases will be able, once they have obtained the necessary permit, to offer accommodation services. For us, it is a new form of direct competition which will greatly harm us,” says the president.
“It is for this reason that we are asking for the possibility of being able to buy our land, in order to restore the value of our facilities. It is absolutely necessary that the people who built these businesses have more opportunities to secure their future. »
In short
The KUUS product range
Photo provided by Julien Cabana
HELP FOR FISHERMEN FROM FEDECP
The Let’s Go Fishing map, from the Quebec Federation of Hunters and Fishermen, is an interactive map that will allow you to know where you can fish, if you can have your boat, in addition to giving the list of integrated washing stations for fish. boats. The www.fedecp.com/pecheaveccyril program offers interactive training for young people. On the Federation’s YouTube channel, at: www.youtube.com/@Fedecp1946, you will find fishing tips and tricks, in addition to hunting stories and techniques, as well as the various Federation programs . The blog, www.fedecp.com/blogue/, transports you into the world of hunting and fishing enthusiasts who provide you with tips and tricks.
AVAILABLE GUIDES
The 2024 versions of Fisherman’s Guide and Hunter’s Guide, presented by the Fédération des pourvoiries du Québec, in concert with various sponsors, are now available. These guides contain a wealth of information, including new features and the famous regulatory changes that come into force this season. There are also detailed maps of areas, a list of regulations and hunting and fishing periods by species and more. They are sold for $2.99 each in outdoor stores as well as at all merchants who sell hunting or fishing licenses.
MOSQUITO FREE
The Canadian company KUUS presents this season a very complete range of products that will allow you to spend a summer without mosquitoes. Piactive insect repellent is a product approved by Health Canada. It is 100% Deet-free. It provides up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes, ticks and black flies. It is a product that is unscented, non-greasy, non-oily and non-sticky. It does not irritate the skin. It will not damage synthetic materials, including polyester, rayon, spandex, nylon, lycra and cotton clothing. For fishermen, it will not damage your lines or outdoor gear. It can be used on children 6 months and older. You will find the entire range of products in pharmacies and big box stores.
