CARLETON-SUR-MER, Que. — Hostellerie Baie Bleue, a three-star hotel in Carleton-sur-Mer, Que., in the Avignon regional county municipality, received a $300,000 repayable contribution from Canada Economic Development (CED) for Quebec Regions for its expansion and the enhancement of its tourism offerings.
“Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries across the globe, as well as a phenomenal driver of economic growth for Canada,” says Navdeep Bains, minister responsible for CED. “CED’s financial support will help Hostellerie Baie Bleue develop and further showcase the attractions of Carleton-sur-Mer and the Avignon regional county municipality, attracting even more visitors to the region. Through this support, the Government of Canada is reaffirming its commitment to promote Quebec’s tourism regions, which has a positive impact on the local economy.”
The expansion included the renovation of the Motel Fani, which Hostellerie Baie Bleue recently acquired. The Government of Canada’s funding allowed the company to add 19 new units to the old motel (15 rooms, four lofts with kitchenettes and a six-room cottage), as well as new furniture and equipment for the expansion.
“We’re grateful to CED and the Government of Canada for supporting our expansion project,” says Stéphane Boudreau, president and CEO of Hostellerie Baie Bleue. “Gaspésie welcomes many tourists and most of Carleton-sur-Mer’s accommodation establishments cannot keep up with the demand. With our development plan, we’ll be able to improve tourist retention — we can provide them with more complete accommodations that are better aligned with the requirements of today’s travellers. The Government of Canada’s support will allow us to secure our position in the Gaspé tourism industry and continue to help boost the region’s economy.”
