Les Motoneigistes du Memphrémagog Inc.: better quality trails thanks to more efficient equipment

The Government of Canada provides over $30,000 in financial assistance for this snowmobiling club

MAGOG, QC, Jan. 22, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

Snowmobile club Les Motoneigistes du Memphrémagog Inc. is responsible for maintaining about 85 kilometres of snowmobile trails in the Memphrémagog MRC; 66 kilometres of these trails make up part of the Trans‑Québec trail network. To allow it to continue ensuring the safety of snowmobilers and improving trail quality, the organization will receive a $31,312 non-repayable contribution from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. The funding will be used to acquire a new grader and a winch, as well as to replace parts on existing equipment.

This financial assistance was announced today by the Honourable Denis Paradis, Member of Parliament for Brome–Missisquoi, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED.

The Government of Canada funding will help ensure the quality and sustainability of the trails maintained by Les Motoneigistes du Memphrémagog Inc., enhance the snowmobilers' experience, and contribute to the vitality of winter tourism in in the Memphrémagog MRC.

The funding was provided under the Winter Tourism Initiative, part of CED's Quebec Economic Development Program. This initiative supports the acquisition of snowmobile and cross-country ski trail maintenance equipment. The aim of the initiative, which has a budget of $10 million and will remain in effect until March 31, 2020, is to increase the regional benefits generated by tourists from outside Quebec.

A non-profit organization, the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ) oversees the development and promotion of safe snowmobiling. The 200 snowmobile clubs affiliated with the FCMQ maintain over 34,000 kilometres of trails across Quebec, over 1,800 of which run through the Cantons‑de‑l'Est region.

The Government of Canada wholeheartedly supports recreational, cultural and sports projects that have a positive impact on tourism and the local economy; that further showcase the incomparable assets all around us; and which resonate well beyond the Cantons-de-l'Est region.

Quotes
"Winter tourism contributes significantly to the economic vitality of the Memphrémagog MRC. Snowmobiling not only attracts fans from the region but also an international clientele, given the proximity of some trails to the Canada-U.S. border. Better quality trails will help enhance the visibility of the Cantons-de-l'Est region and strengthen its reputation as a destination of choice."

The Honourable Denis Paradis, Member of Parliament for Brome–Missisquoi

"Tourism is a very significant activity sector for Quebec's regions, and the Government of Canada is working hard to make it profitable for everyone. There is no doubt that the Winter Tourism Initiative will create jobs and generate wealth for the regions, while helping to showcase communities throughout Quebec."

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister responsible for CED

"Tourism is an economic driver in all our communities. Winter tourism helps stimulate the local economy by revitalizing the region during our coldest months and ensuring a year-round influx of visitors. Our government is proud to promote initiatives that contribute to the economic development of communities and support good middle-class jobs."

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie

"Snowmobiling generates over $3 billion annually in economic benefits for Quebec. This major industry, tirelessly run by thousands of volunteers, is appreciative of CED's financial assistance, which, through the Winter Tourism Initiative, will help rejuvenate the fleet of maintenance equipment belonging to the largest network of snowmobile trails in the world."

Mario Gagnon, President of the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec

Quick facts

• CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.
• For more information on CED and its priorities, consult the 2018–2019 Departmental Plan or visit www.dec‑ced.gc.ca.
• For 50 years now, the Government of Canada has been actively participating in regional economic development in Quebec: half a century of concrete action dedicated to the development of the regions and local businesses.

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SOURCE Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

Media Relations, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, 514-283-7443, [email protected]