Full Breakdown
Keith Russell Leaves PC Party, Vows to Oppose Churchill River Power Deal
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Defection and Planned Vote
Lake Melville MHA Keith Russell announced his departure from the governing Progressive Conservative (PC) Party and became an Independent member of the House of Assembly. The floor-crossing occurred minutes before a special sitting to debate a new electricity agreement for the Churchill River project. In an exclusive interview with NTV News, Russell said he will vote against the Churchill River power deal when it is considered in the House on Thursday.
Background & Context: Power Deal and Indigenous Dispute
The PC government, led by Premier Tony Wakeham, is pursuing a revised agreement with Churchill Falls that would affect electricity supply in Labrador. Russell’s constituents have expressed concern that the deal may not serve local interests. At the same time, a longstanding dispute between the provincial government and the Innu Nation over historical claims has intensified. Russell cited the Innu Nation’s assertion that they have been in Labrador for only 300 years as a point of contention, and he apologized to the Innu for any offense caused by that claim.
Official Statements & Responses
Russell argued that “independent experts” have warned the Churchill River agreement is “not fit to eat” and urged the legislature to “slow down” on the deal. He also linked his departure to the provincial-Innu dispute, saying the conflict contributed to his decision to sit as an Independent. In response, Labrador Affairs Minister Lela Evans suggested that Russell’s exit might be unrelated to a ministerial appointment, noting that she and Russell have not discussed Labrador issues. Russell further criticized the provincial government’s record on public safety, claiming crime and violence in his district have reached an “all-time high” since the PCs took power in October and demanding that Premier Wakeham answer his promise to create safer communities.
Implications for Labrador
Russell’s independent stance introduces uncertainty for the upcoming vote on the Churchill River power deal, potentially altering the balance of support in a tightly contested legislature. His emphasis on Indigenous concerns and public-safety issues may pressure the PC government to address these topics more directly before the Thursday debate.
Verbatim Quote
- “I hope this is the best thing since sliced bread. But I don't feel it. I don't see it,” — Keith Russell — Keith Russell