Elected officials from Quebec express optimism about reaching a mutually beneficial agreement with Newfoundland and Labrador over Churchill Falls. A recent report by a committee appointed by the Newfoundland and Labrador government highlighted significant issues with the current memorandum of understanding (MOU), stating that it is not in the public interest. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham initiated the review in December and has committed to subjecting any future deal to a public referendum.
The MOU, initially signed by former premiers François Legault and Andrew Furey in 2024, was set to be finalized in April 2026. However, Wakeham has announced the formation of a new negotiating team and emphasized the necessity for substantial improvements to the agreement before considering signing it.
Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette and Premier Wakeham have acknowledged the importance of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement promptly. Quebec’s Energy Minister Bernard Drainville reaffirmed the province’s dedication to securing a favorable deal with Newfoundland and Labrador, although the timeline for reaching an agreement before Quebec’s upcoming election on October 5 remains uncertain.
Hydro-Québec welcomed the appointment of a negotiating team and expressed readiness to resume discussions with Newfoundland and Labrador. The corporation emphasized the importance of any final agreement being balanced and advantageous to its customers.
Prime Minister Mark Carney and federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson have engaged in discussions with both provinces regarding the Churchill Falls agreement. Pascal Paradis, the Parti Québécois energy critic, raised concerns about potential federal intervention following the N.L. government’s review committee findings, suggesting that Wakeham may be obstructing the agreement.
Greg Kelley, energy critic for the Quebec Liberals, expressed confidence in Quebec’s ability to collaborate with Newfoundland to reach a satisfactory agreement without federal involvement. The opposition leader, Ruba Ghazal, stressed the necessity for transparency in the negotiations and urged Premier Fréchette to lead effectively on the matter since assuming office in April.