Over 100 Women Join Class Action Against Nordik Spa for Assault

In August 2024, a class-action lawsuit was initiated against the Nordik Spa in Old Chelsea, Quebec, following allegations of sexual assault involving a massage therapist. The lawsuit, originally filed by a Montreal woman, has since attracted more than 100 additional complainants, highlighting serious concerns about safety and accountability within the spa’s operations.

Nordik Spa, located just north of Ottawa, is North America’s largest spa, welcoming over 350,000 guests annually. The original plaintiff, now aged 49, accused a male massage therapist of sexual assault. The lawsuit claims that Nordik Spa failed to implement sufficient measures to prevent such incidents, prompting calls for accountability and compensation for the victims.

Legal Proceedings and Spa Accountability

The class action remains pending approval from the Quebec Superior Court, where the legal team, Lambert Avocats, is seeking recognition of the case. They argue that Nordik Spa is directly responsible for the harm caused to their clients and that the management neglected their duty to provide a safe environment. “Our client suffered several consequences as a result of the sexual assault and decided to bring this class action so that all victims of sexual assault committed during a massage at the Nordik Spa could obtain compensation,” the firm stated.

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the massage therapists involved in the case are classified as independent contractors. Martin Paquette, the spa owner, emphasized his commitment to client safety, saying, “The well-being and safety of our clients is our highest priority, and we take every reasonable step to ensure a safe environment for everyone who visits.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by the absence of a regulatory body for massage therapists in Quebec, which complicates monitoring and accountability.

Currently, Quebec does not have a formal regulatory board overseeing massage therapy, making it difficult to track therapists with histories of complaints or allegations. For example, a massage therapist accused of sexual assault while working at Nordik Spa was dismissed but later found employment at another clinic, unaware of his past allegations. Such gaps in oversight raise significant concerns about client safety.

Industry Response and Future Measures

The spa industry in Quebec is now facing increased scrutiny, and Paquette is advocating for the establishment of a regulatory board. This body would facilitate standardized licensing, background checks, and disciplinary measures for massage therapists. “We’ll use this event to put more pressure on the government for a regulatory order,” he stated.

In a proactive step towards enhancing client safety, Nordik Spa is exploring the use of an AI audio system designed to monitor interactions during massages. This technology would listen for keywords associated with discomfort or distress, automatically alerting staff if necessary. Paquette remarked, “We are a leader in our industry and I am trying to find a solution to have more supervision while respecting everyone’s privacy.”

Previous incidents at Nordik have also raised alarm. In a notorious case from 2016, a priest posing as a massage therapist was convicted after sexually assaulting multiple women at the spa. Management reported the incidents to police promptly, but the lack of a regulatory framework continues to be a significant concern for both clients and spa operators.

As the class action progresses through the legal system, both the plaintiffs and the spa are navigating a complex landscape of accountability and safety. The outcome could potentially reshape industry practices and lead to stronger protections for clients in intimate settings.

The Nordik Spa, a well-known establishment in Old Chelsea, continues to operate amid these allegations and challenges. Built over 20 years ago, it has undergone significant changes, evolving from its origins to accommodate a growing number of visitors. The establishment, which once received funding for its startup from local government sources, now stands at the center of a critical conversation regarding safety and regulatory oversight in the wellness industry.