Appeal to reopen ski lifts in France over Christmas rejected

An appeal against the closure of ski lifts over the festive period has been rejected by France’s top administrative authority, the Conseil d’État, today, December 11.

However, Prime Minister Jean Castex has set a provisional reopening date of January 7, local authorities of ski resort regions report.

Mr Castex announced on December 4 that the lifts must remain closed to the general public until at least January in line with restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19. There is an exception for professionals and children who are members of an association affiliated to the French Ski Federation.

Several local authorities of popular ski resort towns, as well as lift operators and members of various ski associations had appealed the closure, claiming it threatens to cost billions in lost tourism revenue.

The Conseil d’État acknowledged this fact when announcing its decision, but said that the Covid-19 epidemic remains at a high level, which is putting pressure on the health system, “particularly in regions where winter sports are practised”.

“[The court] therefore considers that the contested measure, which is designed to limit the additional contamination caused by large movements of people, does not seriously and manifestly unlawfully infringe the freedoms relied on by the applicants, in particular the freedom to engage in business,” the ruling states.

Following the ruling, Mr Castex said in a video meeting with ski industry professionals and local authorities of ski resort towns that the ski lifts can reopen from January 7, if the health situation allows it.

Eric Ciotti, the deputy departmental councillor for Alpes Maritimes, tweeted out a picture of the meeting, writing, "we call for massive aid for public and private actors in mountain areas".

The prime minister announced on December 10 that the opening of museums, theatres and cinemas would be postponed until at least January 7.

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