FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 16
Happy Valley – Goose Bay – The leader of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, Premier John Hogan, KC, today announced that a Liberal Government will establish a Churchill Transformation Readiness Strategy for Labrador.
On December 12, 2024, the Liberal Government of Newfoundland and Labrador signed an MOU with Quebec to terminate and replace the unfair 1969 Upper Churchill contract.
With major projects expected to develop in Labrador as a result of this new and historic MOU, it is imperative that we take steps to ensure Labrador communities are prepared for the socioeconomic impacts and opportunities. While the entire province will benefit from the new Churchill Falls agreement and the new hydro developments, Labradorians are uniquely positioned to prosper and grow.
Our strategy will ensure the workforce is ready, local businesses are prepared, and appropriate housing, health care, public safety, transportation and education services are in place. As we continue to correct the mistakes of Muskrat Falls, we will ensure the region is positioned to take advantage of the potential. With a truly community-centred, and proactive, approach we can corral the influx of jobs, opportunity, and money, in a manner that ensures long-term maximum benefit for local and Indigenous communities.
As a key feature of this strategy, a re-elected Liberal Government will establish a Labrador Community Engagement Committee to provide a collaborative forum focused on the social and economic impacts related to the development on the Churchill River and other resulting industrial growth arising from the increased power capacity for Labrador.
The Committee, composed of regional community members, project partners, and representatives from relevant government departments, will share information, proactively create solutions, approaches and strategies to prepare communities for impacts that may emerge as a result of tremendous opportunities.
Through meaningful dialogue and strong partnerships, the Committee will identify the priorities and expectations of Labrador communities, and consider the region’s diverse needs and perspectives, including those of our Indigenous partners.
This strategy will also feature continued direct engagement with Indigenous leadership, municipalities and other key stakeholders.
The MOU has transformative power, providing benefits to all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians for decades, and this strategy will help ensure we are prepared to make the most of this incredible opportunity. With real momentum, energy, and leadership, the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador is embracing our province’s tremendous opportunities to deliver a stronger future for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
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Media Contact:
Ben Murphy
Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador
Tel: 709-740-3156
E-mail: [email protected]