The government was not informed of Just for Laughs Group's intentions to protect itself from its creditors. This was confirmed by Mathieu Lacombe at Sophie Durocher's microphone at the QUB. The Minister of Culture and Communications therefore heard the news from the media. However, Quebec pays nearly $2 million a year in direct subsidies, mostly to support the popular summer festival.
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“We always prefer to be warned in advance,” Mr. Lacombe explained.
However, the minister admits that the company is not obliged to communicate its intentions to anyone. Despite everything, he says he tried contacting the Just for Laughs Group to offer government assistance. The company had not yet responded to the call as of this writing.
“I was just disappointed and sad. The Just for Laughs Festival is an extraordinary international showcase. It is a whole flagship that is in danger of disappearing,” commented comedian, presenter and columnist of QUB Jean-François Baril.
Jobs lost
The Culture Minister says he is very concerned about the fate of the artists and artisans directly affected by this news. Still, he believes Quebec's cultural vitality should not be questioned. According to him, the cultural budget reached new heights under the CAQ government.
The artists who were scheduled to take part in this edition of the festival were not deterred by this difficult news and announced their intention to present their show anyway. But the future remains uncertain for craftsmen.
“They are not looking for work, they have a contract for the whole summer! Their mouths are watering there,” lamented Mr. Baril.
Sold to Quebec interests?
Although Just for Laughs Group still hopes to continue its activities, it is not excluded that it decides to sell its shares. If this scenario becomes a reality, Mathieu Lacombe assures that the government will seriously examine the options if an investor from Quebec comes forward.
“We are always ready to ensure that our cultural businesses can develop here,” he said.
For comedian Mario Jean, the festival suffers from the Just for Laughs Group's poor decisions.
“It appears that this company has mixed all sources of income. In my opinion, the festival is essential and should survive even if someone else has to do it,” he said.
Bell and Evenko own 51% of Just for Laughs Group.