Members of the Pessamit Innu First Nation, located northeast of Quebec City, have rejected a proposed $2.5 billion hydro development agreement with Hydro-Québec and the provincial government.

The referendum, which had a 37% voter turnout, saw 63% of eligible voters cast 'no' ballots, with 809 votes against the deal and 471 in favor.The agreement would have allowed energy projects including a hydroelectric dam, wind turbines, and transmission lines on ancestral Innu territory.Community leaders expressed frustration over the short notice of just ten days to review the deal, which included compensation of over $2.5 billion over 50 years in exchange for ending legal challenges to hydro development.Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette acknowledged the decision, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Ian Lafrenière also pledged to meet with community leaders, while Hydro-Québec stated its commitment to ongoing discussions.

The rejection highlights ongoing tensions between Indigenous communities and large-scale infrastructure projects, raising questions about consent, consultation, and long-term impacts on traditional lands.