NationTalk: NEMASKA, EEYOU ISTCHEE – In line with the collective worldwide energy transition initiatives necessary to achieve decarbonization targets in the face of increasing climate change effects, Hydro-Québec is presenting its Action Plan 2035 – Towards a Decarbonized and Prosperous Québec.

A main highlight of Hydro-Québec’s Action Plan is to facilitate the financial and economic participation of Indigenous communities in new energy infrastructure projects. The Cree Nation welcomes this initiative with the clear understanding that only alternative solutions to new hydroelectric production infrastructures would be considered in Eeyou Istchee. This is consistent with Hydro-Québec’s focus in the Action Plan on increasing the power generated by its existing hydroelectric facilities, limiting the footprint of hydropower development on the land and maximizing the use of existing infrastructures. In this context, the development of new dams would not be a viable option for the people of Eeyou Istchee.

“The decarbonization of our environment will lead to significant shifts in how energy is produced. The Cree Nation looks forward to being part of the evolution and collaborating in providing potential alternative energy production solutions all the while creating opportunities for our communities. “– Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty

It is important to remember the guiding principles of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement signed in 1975 and its unique environmental and social protection regime that has guided development since to ensure that Eeyouch may continue to exercise their inherent and treaty rights to pursue traditional activities within Eeyou Istchee that have sustained us and our culture since time immemorial.

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For more information:

Flora Weistche
Political Attachée to the Grand Chief
Email: flora.weistche@cngov.ca
Cell: 438-838-0228