The special debate in the House of Assembly on the MOU with Quebec is now underway.

Opposition leaders and both independent members gave opening remarks this morning, with the need for an independent review of the agreement being an ask right across the board.

Premier Andrew Furey argues that there has been independent oversight throughout the entire process.

He says that started with the LeBlanc report, then the Churchill River Energy Analysis Team, and the expert panel that would provide advice to government.

Furey says government will continue to have independent oversight, noting they will establish a “team of experts” – separate from the negotiating team – that will provide advice to cabinet.

He notes the composition of that team has not yet been determined, but they are looking at a mix of a financial, legal, and energy experts.

PC leader Tony Wakeham acknowledges that government had experts advise them on the MOU, such as JP Morgan, but notes that they were “hired.”

Wakeham says he does not consider someone who is hired to be independent, and that review must happen separately.

NDP leader Jim Dinn concurs, saying that the review must be done by a panel that is arm’s length from government, “and that reports to the House and to the people of the province, not just to cabinet.”