Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly passes Churchill Falls deal

The Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly has passed the Churchill Falls deal with a narrow 21-18 vote following a four-day special debate. The decision saw support from all Progressive Conservative MHAs and independent MHA Eddie Joyce, while Liberal and NDP members, along with recently independent MHA Keith Russell, voted against the measure.

Opposition leaders raised several concerns regarding the agreement. NDP leader Jim Dinn stated he could not support the deal due to a lack of independent oversight, the absence of a requirement to bring final agreements back to the House for a vote, and the lack of approval from the Innu Nation. Liberal Leader John Hogan cited concerns regarding transparency and the absence of market-based pricing in the new deal.

Premier Tony Wakeham addressed these concerns by confirming that the deal will return to the House of Assembly before definitive agreements are reached. He also noted that oversight will continue through an existing Oversight Committee. Wakeham characterized the deal as a move that provides more jobs, value, and options for future generations.