Côte-Nord, July 5, 2026

ITUM and Hydro-Québec turn an important page in their relationship and sign a historic reconciliation agreement

Uashat mak Mani-utenam - The Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam Council (ITUM) and Hydro-Québec have concluded a historic agreement, marking the beginning of a new relationship founded on respect, dialogue and collaboration.

This Reconciliation Agreement resolves the disputes relating to the Romaine Hydroelectric Complex and the Arnaud-Alouette transmission line. The agreement includes financial compensation of $75 million, to be paid over a two-year period, as well as the creation of a permanent Reconciliation Committee.

This agreement recognizes the importance of learning from the past in order to build a stronger and more constructive relationship between Hydro-Québec and ITUM.

During the official signing ceremony, held in Maliotenam before community members, Hydro-Québec President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Claudine Bouchard offered a formal apology to the Innu of Uashat mak Mani-utenam for the past disputes related to the Romaine project and the Arnaud-Alouette transmission line.

Looking toward the future

Beyond resolving long-standing disputes, the agreement establishes a new framework for collaboration between ITUM and Hydro-Québec.

The Reconciliation Committee will provide an ongoing forum for dialogue to discuss issues of mutual interest and explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership on future projects. In particular, it will serve as a forum to discuss any development activities that may have an impact on ITUM’s traditional territory, in a spirit of listening, transparency and the pursuit of shared solutions.

The agreement confirms the parties’ commitment to preventing disputes, strengthening relationships based on trust, and fostering meaningful community participation in future projects.

This new relationship reflects a shared commitment to advancing reconciliation through concrete actions, lasting commitments and respectful dialogue.

"Today, we are turning an important page in our history. This agreement acknowledges the wounds experienced by our community and opens the way to a renewed relationship based on respect, recognition and genuine dialogue. It represents a significant step forward for the Innu of Uashat mak Mani-utenam and for future generations. After many years of efforts, discussions and legal proceedings, we are proud to have reached an agreement that recognizes our rights, respects our community and the Nitassinan, and lays the foundation for a more balanced relationship for the future."

Jonathan Shetush
Chief of the Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam Council (ITUM)

"Behind every great partnership are women and men who carry a history, a memory and very real lived experiences. Despite the disputes of the past, today we have chosen to look toward the future together. That is what gives this agreement its true value and meaning, and what gives purpose to the reconciliation journey we are embarking on. By creating a lasting and respectful space for dialogue, we are giving ourselves the opportunity to better understand one another, work more closely together and build a strong relationship for the years ahead."

Claudine Bouchard
President and Chief Executive Officer, Hydro-Québec

"This agreement marks the beginning of a new relationship between the community, Hydro-Québec and the Government of Québec. Today, we are putting the past behind us, without forgetting it. Together, we are laying the foundations for a nation-to-nation relationship based on respect and partnership. I am hopeful that this agreement will foster respectful development that brings positive benefits for everyone."

Ian Lafrenière
Deputy Premier, Minister of Public Security and Minister Responsible for Relations with the First Nations and the Inuit

"Reconciliation is built through concrete actions. The agreement we are signing today is an excellent example of that. It opens a new chapter founded on respect, dialogue and trust. It also reminds us that, in Québec, energy development is built in partnership with First Nations. By working together, we can develop the energy projects of tomorrow while respecting communities, territories and benefiting both present and future generations."

Bernard Drainville
Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for the Maritime Strategy

"Today, we are taking an important step forward with the community of Uashat mak Mani-utenam. Reconciliation is built through concrete actions, and this agreement is one of them. I welcome the creation of the Reconciliation Committee, an essential forum for dialogue that will help us build, together, a lasting relationship of trust and an energy future that reflects the aspirations of the community, the Côte-Nord region and Québec."

Kateri Champagne Jourdain
Minister of Natural Resources and Forests and Member of the National Assembly for Duplessis