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Quebec displaying arrogance: Danny Williams

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams says the province of Quebec is demonstrating arrogance and discriminatory business practices. This comes after the ruling of the Régie de l'énergie (Régie)—Québec’s energy regulator—against a transmission service request by Nalcor Energy.  

“The blatant disregard of the Régie on the basic principles of open access and non-discrimination is staggering,” said Williams. “The arguments put forward by Nalcor to allow transmission of Lower Churchill power through Quebec were sound, legitimate arguments that we firmly believe should have been accepted. Hydro-Québec is required to provide open and fair access to its transmission lines under its own tariff rules which they have adopted from the United States. We were willing to pay our fair share and a substantial tariff up to $200 million annually for a 30-year period.”

 
“While we are disappointed by this ruling, we are not surprised as it is consistent with Quebec's history of attempting to stop this project from proceeding unless it is on their terms,” continued Williams. “The absurdity of their decision is embarrassing to Quebec. What Quebec has done today is to tell the people of Canada and the United States that they will go to any lengths to ensure they have market dominance over electricity markets in northeastern North America.”

May 13, 2010  By Newfoundland & Labrador