The sugar shacks that had to close did so "at the worst time" last season, on the eve of the start of their season, when the fridges were full of cane marinades, sugar pies and a host of other traditional cooked foods.
"It's like saying that we make wine in Italy, but that we can no longer go to vineyards to taste it," said Laurin. She said the reality will be very sad for Quebec "to have this loss on the conscience.", believes that governments should inject liquidity into these companies and would like to have a clear picture of what will happen next.
The sugar season is usually planned as early as October with preparations made for homemade fruit ketchup, beets and pickles. Its location is a reflection of its sector. Sugar shacks have lost more than 90 per cent of their income, according to a survey conducted with the ASEQC. "As a good Quebecer, that means: 'Go bankrupt. Thank you. Good day,'" said Frédéric Paiement in protest.The minister's response shows a flagrant lack of compassion, he said.