Quebec plans massive hydroelectric project

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - The Quebec government has announced construction plans for a $5-billion hydroelectric project, its biggest in a decade.

Two dams will be built in northern Quebec in the James Bay region on Cree lands, with the Cree divided on supporting the project and some environmental groups expressing concerns.

Premier Jean Charest says hydroelectricity is an economic development tool for Quebec that will benefit all of its citizens, including the Cree.

Construction of the dams will be completed between 2009 and 2012 and will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

Quebec Native Affairs Minister Geoffrey Kelley says the project will help build a strong Cree community and provide for its children

The project was announced several years ago.