Fate of Hydro-Québec settlement with Labrador Innu unknown after too few people vote

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ST. JOHN'S - The future of a reconciliation proposal between Hydro-Québec and Innu in Labrador is unknown after a ratification vote didn't see enough people cast a ballot.

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ST. JOHN’S – The future of a reconciliation proposal between Hydro-Québec and Innu in Labrador is unknown after a ratification vote didn’t see enough people cast a ballot.

A spokesperson for the Innu Nation says more than 50 per cent of eligible voters in both Innu communities in Labrador — Sheshatshiu and Natuashish — had to weigh in on the draft deal.

Donna Paddon says voter turnout was good in Natuashish but did not meet the threshold in Sheshatshiu.

Public art adorns a water tower in Sheshatshiu, N.L., May 10, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sarah Smellie
Public art adorns a water tower in Sheshatshiu, N.L., May 10, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sarah Smellie

The Innu Nation’s board of directors will meet and determine what happens next.

The agreement in principle would end a 2020 lawsuit launched by the Innu Nation seeking compensation from the utility for building and operating the Churchill Falls hydroelectric station in traditional Innu territory.

Hydro-Québec also agreed to make annual payments over 16 years totalling $87 million to a reconciliation fund for the Innu in Labrador.

A spokesperson for Hydro-Québec says utility officials will discuss next steps with the Innu Nation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 28, 2025.

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