Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi Announce Major Wind Development Partnership

August 27, 2025

Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi announce major wind development partnership

Gespe’gewa’gi, – Today marks an important step for the Mi’gmaq of Gespe’gewa’gi. In partnership with Alliance de l’énergie de l’Est and Hydro-Québec, the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation has committed to exploring the wind power potential of Gespe’gewa’gi. This initiative reflects the Mi’gmaq vision of exercising their rights and responsibilities on their territory to create a greener, more prosperous future.

Gespe’gewa’gi, meaning “the last land” in Mi’gmaq, refers to the traditional territory of the Mi’gmaq communities of Gespeg, Gesgapegiag, and Listuguj, shareholders of the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation. Gespe’gewa’gi includes the Gaspé peninsula and the eastern Bas-Saint-Laurent regions. The Mi’gmaq have never ceded or surrendered their Aboriginal rights and title in Gespe’gewa’gi, which are protected by the Peace and Friendship Treaties.

The new partnership will explore the potential for up to 6,000 MW of new wind power capacity in Gespe’gewa’gi. It is designed to harness the territory’s potential for green energy production while respecting the role of the Mi’gmaq as stewards of the land.  It will also generate long-term, stable revenue for the communities of Gespeg, Gesgapegiag and Listuguj, supporting self-determination and economic growth.

This agreement represents a step towards economic reconciliation and strengthening relationships. It prioritizes engagement and consent before any development occurs within unceded Mi’gmaq territory.

At the heart of the partnership is the principle of social acceptability. No specific project has been agreed to, and the partnership does not guarantee that any particular project will be built. Instead, it ensures the Mi’gmaq have a central role in decision-making and that any future projects will move forward only with community support. Having a seat at the table ensures development respects the ongoing Mi’gmaq use and occupation of the land.

The Mi’gmaq are the original people of this region and have been responsible for the health and wellbeing of the territory since time immemorial. This partnership strengthens their ability to carry out this sacred responsibility so that the next seven generations inherit a strong and thriving Gespe’gewa’gi.

Quotes:

“The Mi’gmaq have inherent rights and responsibilities for the stewardship of the land, waters, and living things of Gespe’gewa’gi. Our Peace and Friendship Treaties confirm our rights and responsibilities, and this agreement will empower us to fulfill them.”– Chief Scott Martin, Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government

“This partnership can be seen as a step towards Truth and Reconciliation through economic development  ventures.  By having representation at the table shows collaboration and mutual respect to all those involved in Gespe’gewa’gi.” – Chief Rod Larocque, Gesgapegiag Mi’gmaq First Nation

“This agreement marks a pivotal step for our community and for the recognition of our rights over the Gespe’gewa’gi. We approach it with a firm commitment to defending our members’ interests while focusing on constructive collaboration with our partners in the spirit of reconciliation. We made it a point to be present in the discussions and will continue to participate to ensure that economic development takes place with respect for our territory and for the benefit of all.” –  Chief Céline Cassivi, Mi’gmaq Nation of Gespeg

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