Judging that the Churchills Falls hydroelectric power station had “devastating impacts” on their traditional territory, the Innus of Uashat mak Mani-utenam (UMM) initiated a $2.2 billion lawsuit against Hydro-Québec and $200 million against Churchill Falls (Labrador) Corporation Limited (CF(L)Co).
Begun in the late 1960s for commissioning in 1971, the plant was built in Labrador “in the traditional territory of the Innu of UMM, without the consent or even the slightest consultation of the Innu of UMM”, can we read in an originating application filed in the Superior Court of Quebec last Friday.
The construction of the 5428.5 MW dam has caused several disturbances in the territory, including the flooding of large areas, the construction of more than 1,000 kilometers of power line or the erection of roads and camps, the plaintiffs pointed out. who rule that its development and operation “are illegal and unconstitutional and constitute continuing violations by the defendants of ancestral rights”.
“The Churchill Falls Megaproject has had devastating impacts on our people. Hydro-Québec and CF(L)Co have illegally appropriated our lands in order to benefit from their energy wealth for decades. To be a responsible company, Hydro-Québec must repair its wrongs and demonstrate its respect for our lands, our people and our rights,” responded the Innu chief of Uashat mak Mani-utenam, Mike Mckenzie.
Over $2.4 billion in damages
Although Hydro-Québec owns only 34.2% of the plant, the Innu believe that it would never have seen the light of day without the support of the state-owned company, which buys the vast majority of the electricity. produced by the dam.
Consequently, the Innus of UMM are claiming $2 billion in damages “for past damages and continuing damages”, in addition to an amount of $200 million in exemplary and punitive damages.
In addition, the community is seeking compensation of $200 million from CF(L)Co, the company that built and operates the plant.
“An annual compensation equivalent to 12.5% of 15% of HQ’s annual profits from the judgment to be rendered” was also claimed as compensation.
This lawsuit comes as Quebec must already consider the contract between Hydro-Quebec and the plant, which will expire in 2041. Currently, Hydro-Quebec pays barely 0.2 cents per kWh produced at the plant. In comparison, Quebecers pay 6.139 cents for each kWh they consume, an amount 30 times higher.
The Innu believe, however, that no renegotiation of the contract can go ahead without their approval.
“Any arrangement or negotiation regarding the future of the Churchill Falls Megaproject facilities must be made with our participation and consent. Without this, it will be impossible for Hydro-Québec to establish a relationship of good faith with our Nation”, exclaimed Chief Mckenzie.
Recall that the Innus of UMM won another round against Hydro-Québec last December, when the Superior Court concluded that they had not been adequately consulted for the construction of a power line to supply the Alouette aluminum smelter. in Sept-Iles.