News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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PRIME MINISTER ANNOUNCES EASTMAIN-RUPERT RIVER HYDRO PROJECT ADVANCES

December 18, 2006
JONQUIÈRE

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Canada’s New Government has completed its review of the report of the Federal Environmental Assessment Panel on the proposed Eastmain 1-A Hydroelectric Project and Rupert River Diversion. The Government agrees with the Panel’s conclusion that this project can and should proceed.

“This project is important for First Nations, the Province of Quebec and for Canada.” the Prime Minister stated. “As our economy grows, so too must our supply of clean renewable energy.”

It is expected that this massive hydro electric project will create some 5,500 jobs and have enormous economic benefits that could reach more than $4 billion.

“My government looks forward to working with First Nations communities, industry stakeholders and the Quebec government as we finalize the regulatory process,” the Prime Minister said.

Speaking in Jonquière, the Prime Minister also reviewed the new government's track record: "Among the achievements of Canada's New Government I am most proud of is the recognition, by Canada's Parliament, that the Québécois form a nation within a united Canada."

"But it's not finished: we still have a lot to do to fulfil our agenda for real change. We have committed to address imbalance and restore balance within the Canadian federation. And we will. We have promised to practise federalism of openness. And we will continue to do so. We have promised to deliver real change. And we will continue to do so. Because we are a government that keeps its word," the Prime Minister concluded.

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The Prime Minister’s Office - Communications
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