With the enactment of the new version of the Tourist Accommodation Act, which removes the classification from the law, Camping Québec has decided to maintain a program on a voluntary basis.
“It’s important to understand that the currently emerging principle of star classification is still bound by the old law,” said Camping Québec President and CEO Simon Tessier.
“You have to understand that during the pandemic we have not gone outside to classify campsites. It’s been two years since we were on the field. When the new law goes into effect in a few weeks, campsites will have a certain amount of time to remove their zodiac signs, he continues. However, for us, on our website and elsewhere, everything will disappear except for those who have signed up for our voluntary classification program. »
So far, more than 200 campsites have signed up and Tessier expects that number to continue to grow.
“Campsites did not exist without stars, which are the reference mark for enthusiasts. »
A FIRST CLASSIFICATION
After several seasons without field work, Camping Québec’s experts will continue this summer.
“This summer we will experience our first season of voluntary classification,” said the CEO. We have an itinerary that allows us to meet the campsites that have joined the program as has been the case in the past. What is certain is that we will do less. »
“We’ve had a voluntary classification program in the past that caused problems. The campsites informed us that they would withdraw from Camping Québec if they did not have the desired number of stars. So this season we will do the program and if the campsite is not satisfied with its result, it is not obliged to exhibit it,” he adds.
If the campground does not display its score, it will not have the benefits associated with participating in the program. If the classification has disappeared in the new law, there is still an obligation for campsites.
“Even in the new law, there is still a reporting requirement,” explains Mr. Tessier. It is actually a form of permit that must be in the form of a statement to Camping Québec to prove that the campsite is still in the area. This permit costs $145. It is a state obligation. An on-site inspection is only carried out for campsites that participate in the voluntary classification program. »
Ultimately, consumers will be the losers. A survey of camping enthusiasts found they use the stars to help them decide where to go and more.
“We would have liked the system to stay in place, but as decision makers didn’t want that, we found the compromise of voluntary grading for those who wish to continue showing up. »
So if you want to continue to rely on the stars when choosing your campsite, you should hurry because information from several information platforms will soon disappear. However, today we are often asked to express our satisfaction with a service or establishment by giving it stars, usually from one to five.
IN SUMMARY
ARCC OF QUEBEC
The Association régionale de camping et caravanage Québec-Métropolitain (ARCC 06) is hosting a promotional event on May 27th, 28th and 29th in E.Boudreault VR. The company is located on Hamel Boulevard and welcomes you during an open house. This is a promotion to attract new members. On the 27th the activity will take place from 8am to 5pm, on the 28th from 8.30am to 3pm and on the 29th from 9am to 3pm. In addition to new members, the Quebec ARCC is looking for volunteers. For more information: André Lagueux at 418 906-5900 or [email protected].
SEASON START
ARC 06 will hold its pre-season launch activity from June 3rd to 5th at Camping Panoramique Parkbridge in Portneuf. Several activities and conferences are on the agenda. To register or find out more about the cost of attending, especially as places are limited, you must register at www.arcc06.quebec before May 27th. Next to the registration you can see the detailed program of activities for the weekend.
