Wendake, December 5, 2024 – The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) welcomes the publication of Hydro-Québec’s Strategy for Economic Reconciliation and Strengthening Relations with First Nations and Inuit.
This strategy represents a necessary step toward building genuine partnerships between First Nations and Hydro-Québec, in addition to reiterating the Crown corporation’s recognition of the ancestral and treaty rights of First Nations and the principles established by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The AFNQL welcomes Hydro-Québec’s willingness to take responsibility for the harm caused to First Nations’ rights and territories by energy development. First Nations also commend Hydro-Québec’s openness and sincerity during discussions with them and their representatives prior to the strategy’s development.
“Hydro-Québec’s Strategy for Economic Reconciliation is a first step in the right direction. It is based on principles that have been agreed upon by First Nations. We have rights that deserve recognition and respect. We appreciate that Hydro-Québec and Mr. Sabia are committed to this path,” said Ghislain Picard, Regional Chief of the AFNQL. Hydro-Québec’s openness to dialogue is an example to follow in taking charge of initiatives related to energy resource governance. Furthermore, in light of Bill 69, An Act to ensure responsible governance of energy resources and to amend various legislative provisions, First Nations expect Hydro-Québec’s openness to reconciliation to be echoed in the Quebec government’s approach to energy resource governance.
Hydro-Québec’s openness to dialogue sets an example to be followed in the management of energy resource governance initiatives. Furthermore, in light of Bill 69, An Act to ensure responsible governance of energy resources and to amend various legislative provisions, First Nations expect Hydro-Québec’s openness to reconciliation to be echoed in the Quebec government’s approach to energy resource governance.