N.L. premier still mum on Quebec energy deal review, but promises details soon

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier, Tony Wakeham speaks to the media during a news conference on the Bay du Nord project in St. John's, N.L. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Daly

ST. JOHN’S — Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham won’t say what’s in a review of a draft energy deal between hydro utilities in his province and Quebec.

However, he promised its final report will be released to the public on May 19.

Wakeham says the three-person panel tasked with carrying out the review will also speak publicly about their findings that day.

He says that until then he is withholding his comments about their work — even though he has had their report since Friday.

Wakeham had demanded a review of the framework agreement for sharing Labrador energy with Hydro-Québec since it was unveiled in 2024 by Newfoundland and Labrador’s former Liberal government.

Wakeham told reporters he called Quebec Premier Christine Frechette on Friday to tell her the review was complete.

“I anticipate having further conversations,” he said.

• READ MORE: Quebec premier feels bound by Labrador energy deal despite expiration date

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 4, 2026.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press