Public consultation report July 2017

On a number of occasions it was noted that Parks Canada has done and continues to do an excellent job of conserving historical buildings of national importance. It is considered that the heritage character of the site has been preserved. 

However, some of the comments suggest that Parks Canada does not adequately emphasize the importance of restoring buildings that have not yet been restored and that have a heritage, historic and tourism interest. The conservation of buildings of national historic significance in a stable condition does not appear to be sufficient in the view of a number of individuals.

Parks Canada's concern about the need to consider a source of energy supply other than oil seems to be shared. Besides, for many people, it would be relevant to establish an energy supply system that is more appropriate and ecological, such as wind or tidal energy.

It was also mentioned that Parks Canada must be more concerned about waste management and implement the principles of sustainable development more forcefully.

The interpretation work, carried out mainly by Parks Canada staff, is now recognized and valued. In fact, the concern about the phenomenon of "disneyisation" is no longer relevant and the work of the Agency is recognized, whereas the original concept of development had raised major questions during the first Pan-Canadian public consultations conducted in 1992 and 1993. It was also stated that personalized contacts remain a priority, in particular by organizing meetings with Parks Canada staff. This aspect is a characteristic feature of the offer.

The development corresponds to the scale of the site and its importance. However, the fact of continuing to offer the most diverse experiences possible was stressed. Some expressed a desire to introduce other themes associated with the history of the site, but not related to the reasons for the designation (military period and Agriculture Canada period). Maintenance of investments for the development and activities of the site is essential in the eyes of many. In fact, it was suggested that access to genealogical resources and databases be allowed in order to facilitate on-site research. In addition, for some individuals, genealogical research should be defined as a top-level motivator for visiting the site and better understanding the heritage of Grosse Île.

Some individuals consider that the national historic site visit time is too short relative to the admission price (including the time and the price of transport).

The importance of having, at the administrative level, one foot on the ground in Montmagny and a reception point, or even an interpretation centre at Berthier-sur-Mer in the summer season was stressed. A number of individuals also think that social networks are of great importance for encouraging the sharing of the site's history.

The issue concerning access by boat to Grosse Île creates a concern about the impression of a monopoly which was raised due to the presence of a single carrier. It seems desirable that Parks Canada facilitate discussions to ensure the long-term accessibility of the island from Berthier-sur-Mer.

In everyone's opinion, it is important to ensure the stability of recurrent funding for the dredging of the navigation channel that allows access to the island. Some stressed the importance of working in synergy with the Agency in order to improve this access, while others suggested that Parks Canada's team be equipped with a boat.

In addition, the higher and higher entry costs (pricing and transport fees) are a concern.

It was also suggested to enhance knowledge of the historic site among regional decision-makers, both in the political and entrepreneurial worlds, as well as with partners, including those in the tourism industry, in order to encourage support, mainly with respect to access to the site.

A number of individuals want to maintain partnerships initiated with Parks Canada, or even improve these collaborative agreements so that the site becomes a beacon destination at both the national and international levels. Moreover, the Irish National Famine Museum in Strokestown, Ireland, wishes to enhance participation in common events and activities in addition to contributing to a joint promotion.

The Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site remains a jewel to be discovered, and not only for the local population. It is important to talk about this site, to disseminate its history and not neglect the promotional initiatives and partnerships that are associated with it. It is proposed to enhance the promotion of the site in order to increase the number of visits in the months of September and October.

Making a larger number of people familiar with the site was a desire expressed on several occasions, as well as the importance of making it an absolute must-see place for anyone visiting Quebec City. It is hoped that the region is promoted as a tourist destination and that Grosse Île consolidates its position as a traffic builder for the tourism sector of Montmagny and the Islands.

It seems that Grosse Île remains unknown to the public, particularly in metropolitan Montreal. However, the national historic site is perceived as a distinctive product, a unique treasure, both for the region as well as for the country as a whole.