Conflicts and Resolutions

Village harmony is real but not absolute. Conflicts arise over property boundaries, noise, political differences, and personal slights magnified by proximity. The mechanisms for managing conflict reflect both formal law and informal custom.

"In thirty years as mayor, I've mediated hundreds of disputes," says former mayor Robert Dupuis. "Usually, they're about respect rather than substance. Someone parks blocking another's access, doesn't maintain hedges properly, makes noise during siesta hours. Small things that become big because they happen daily."

Traditional mechanisms for conflict resolution persist. The mayor's informal mediation often prevents formal complaints. Social pressure - disapproval expressed through subtle shunning - encourages conformity. The curé (priest), though less influential than previously, still counsels quarreling parishioners. When conflicts escalate to formal procedures, everyone loses - legal costs, damaged relationships, village harmony disrupted.

"We had a terrible conflict over the proposed wind turbines," recalls municipal councilor Jean-Paul Martin. "Families divided, friendships ended, council meetings became shouting matches. Eventually we found compromise - fewer turbines, further from houses, with compensation for affected properties. But scars remain. Some people still don't speak."