Quebec’s energy minister is standing by the current Churchill Falls memorandum of understanding (MOU) but is open to adjustments if Newfoundland and Labrador initiates changes. Premier Tony Wakeham, who campaigned for a better deal with Quebec, plans to subject the MOU to an independent review and a public referendum. During a meeting with eastern premiers and U.S. governors in St. John’s, Quebec’s Energy Minister Christine Fréchette expressed interest in discussing the MOU with Wakeham, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the existing balance in the agreement.
Fréchette stated that if Newfoundland and Labrador proposes modifications, Quebec will also seek changes on its end to uphold the current balance. Wakeham reiterated the need for an independent review of the MOU and anticipated fruitful discussions with Fréchette following the conference in St. John’s. The exchange occurred at the 46th annual New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers conference, where Quebec Premier François Legault was notably absent.
Both Wakeham and Fréchette expressed confidence in the ongoing timeline for the agreement, with Wakeham promising to disclose details of the independent review soon. The conference, attended by officials like Vermont Gov. Phil Scott and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt, focused on mutual interests such as technology, innovation, energy, and the environment. Resolutions were adopted to enhance collaboration in areas like energy, ecological connectivity, food security, technology, and innovation.
Discussions extended to economic cooperation between eastern Canadian provinces and New England, amid trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. The delegates also addressed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, emphasizing the importance of expanding trade relations. Vermont Gov. Phil Scott highlighted the significance of Canada as a trading partner for Vermont and other New England states, underscoring the need for continued cooperation.
Although other U.S. governors were absent, Scott assured that communication channels remain open for collaboration. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties and address common challenges faced by both countries, with a focus on fostering economic growth and trade relations between the regions.