The Zoo de Granby in Quebec announced a lockout notice this morning, affecting around 130 employees who are members of the CSN union.
These employees had been participating in intermittent strikes since July 9 and had recently adopted an unlimited strike mandate on July 26. Despite the lockout, the zoo remains fully operational, offering a reduced admission fee to visitors.
Paul Gosselin, CEO of the Zoo de Granby, stated that the lockout aims to maintain stability for both the animals and the zoo’s operations.
“With an unlimited strike mandate that could be effective without notice, it is impossible for us to operate the site efficiently under the threat of a service interruption at any moment. We have therefore chosen to take action to ensure the quality of the customer experience, but also and above all, the well-being of the animals under our care,” Gosselin said.
The zoo’s wildlife park, Amazoo water park, amusement park, and all visitor services, including restaurants and shops, remain open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. The majority of the zoo’s employees continue to work during this period.
On July 22, the Zoo de Granby presented a comprehensive offer to the striking employees in an attempt to reach a swift resolution. Gosselin highlighted the financial challenges the non-profit organization faces in the post-pandemic environment.
“This labour dispute and its consequences on our non-profit organization exacerbate our financial vulnerability. We hope that ensuring stability during this summer season will enable us to avoid delaying significant development projects tied to the zoo’s mission of acting for the preservation of the animal world, while maintaining its tourist appeal,” he added.
Founded in 1953, the Zoo de Granby is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the animal world. The zoo features a wildlife park with nearly 1,500 animals, the Amazoo water park, and an amusement park, employing nearly 1,000 people during the peak tourist season.
