Initial talks between Premier Andrew Furey and Quebec Premier Francois Legault in St. John’s yesterday were big on pleasantries but small on details.
The two men met over dinner on Thursday, and in Furey’s office Friday morning, to discuss the controversial Churchill Falls contract which is due to expire in 2041.
Photo via Twitter
The deal, signed in 1969, gives Quebec the lion’s share of profits from power generated by the river, something Furey is intent on correcting.
Legault said he’s well aware of how Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel about the contract, which he called “a bad deal.”
He says he “fully understands” the frustration and anger felt by people in this province over the agreement, which he said became “a bad deal” over time, noting it’s always better to have a “win-win” situation for both parties.
Furey, meanwhile, says whether such a win-win agreement can be reached remains to be seen, but he says it was important that he and Legault meet nonetheless.
Photo via Twitter
He says he realizes people are hungry for details as to the direction that talks are headed, but says those issues will be kept under wraps for now, adding the talks may or may not lead to an amicable resolution for both provinces.
Both premiers also committed to consulting with Indigenous groups, with Furey scheduled to meet with Innu Grand Chief Etienne Rich on Monday.
