Coasters' Association Mandate

The Coasters' Association exists to advance the purposes of the people of the Lower North Shore. It does this through publications, advocacy, and programs in education, health, economic development and community services. The Coasters' Association is run by a Board of Directors composed of people from all across the Lower North Shore, and is a part of the Quebec Community Groups Network.

The geographical area in which the Coasters' Association operates extends along the North Shore of the St. Lawrence River from the town of Kegaska to the town of Blanc-Sablon and the Québec-Labrador border. These communities share a state of isolation: transport along the Lower North Shore is generally by plane, boat or snowmobile. The small population (no town over 1000, total population 5 758*) and isolation of these towns results in a need for special attention to the maintenance and improvement of health, education, transportation, community services, etc.

It is the belief of the Coasters' Association that the Lower North Shore's tourism potential could be a key to economic strength in the area. The Lower North Shore boasts several bird sanctuaries and fishing clubs, as well as a vast expanse of untouched wilderness and an abundance of historical sites. The promotion of these resources forms another part of the Coasters' goal.

The small population of the Lower North Shore also means that it needs a strong, unified voice. The Coasters' Association speaks on behalf of their members, bringing the Lower North Shore to the attention of government, organizations and companies.