Premier celebrates Innu backing of hydro deal

TheLabrador Innu Nation's acceptance of a deal crucial to a multibillion-dollar hydroelectric project marks a proud moment in Newfoundland and Labrador's history, Premier Kathy Dunderdale said Friday.

Dunderdale said ratification of the so-called New Dawn agreement will bring new opportunities and secure important benefits for the Innu in regards to the development at Muskrat Falls.

"Our government's partnership with the Innu Nation has been a successful one and we will continue to work together to ensure that the interests of the Innu are respected," she said in a news release.

The agreement with the provincial government offers the Innu hunting rights within 34,000 square kilometres of land. It also provides $2 million annually in compensation for flooding caused by the construction of the Churchill Falls hydroelectric dam 40 years ago.

The provincial government said an impacts and benefits deal contained in the New Dawn agreement for the Lower Churchill hydroelectric project includes a structured royalty regime.

Employment and business opportunities

Shawn Skinner, the province's minister of natural resources, said it also ensures the Innu have priority for employment and business opportunities associated with the development.

"The positive vote is an important step in support of the development of the Lower Churchill," Skinner said.

Innu leaders signed the 600-page agreement in principle with the province more than a year ago. In order to be accepted, the Innu had to vote at least 60 per cent in favour Thursday.

Innu Nation Grand Chief Joseph Riche said in an email that the community of Sheshatshui voted 84 per cent in favour of acceptance, while Natuashish voted 96 per cent.

He called it a "momentous occasion."

There are about 2,400 Innu in Labrador living in Sheshatshui and Natuashish.

The deal also includes a land claims agreement in principle. The provincial government said that agreement is non-binding and will form the basis for negotiating a final land claims agreement or treaty.

It will define Innu treaty rights and where those rights will apply in Labrador.