The federal energy minister believes any assertion that a disagreement between the provincial government and Innu Nation could delay the Churchill Falls deal is “hypothetical.”

Minister Tim Hodgson believes the province will be able to set aside any difference in opinion following a dispute over the Innu’s history and presence in Labrador.

While government officials have been in communication with the Innu Nation, the Premier has not spoken with Grand Chief Jodie Ashini about the dispute.

Hodgson is optimistic that both sides will find a way forward.

“We’ve been very clear that we work in partnership with Indigenous peoples. I believe that there’s a very constructive dialogue going on between the Premier and the government and the Innu Nation, and I’m sure they will work something out,” he told reporters.