Regional economy

Socioeconomic situation of the Innu

Apart from the case of the Innu community of Essipit, a relatively small proportion of the Innu population is employed at the present time. Moreover, thousands of young Innu will be entering the labour market in the very near future, but many lack sufficient schooling. As a result, manpower training and access to the work market represent a major challenge for the Innu.

An active participation of the Innu

The agreement-in-principle provides for measures to foster the active participation of the Innu in the regional economy. The plans and timetables for the application of the various measures of the agreement still need to be negotiated. Québec aims to ensure that the plans and timetables are integrated progressively and harmoniously in the regional context, while respecting the characteristics of each community.

Development measures

According to the development measures envisaged, the Innu would have a greater presence in the field of commercial fishing, forestry and the operation of small hydroelectric power plants, as well as in the outfitting field, under the same conditions as every other operator. Within this perspective, manpower training measures are also planned to promote the employability of the Innu.

A capitalization fund, based on the model of other development funds, would be set up to support the creation of Innu enterprises.

Positive spin-offs

With the help of these additional tools, the Innu would be able to improve their economic situation and meet their own needs to a larger extent.

Moreover, the agreement-in-principle stipulates that amounts would be paid to the Innu, in particular as capital endowment and compensation for the encroachment on their Aboriginal rights in the past.

Globally, the improvement of their situation would produce positive economic spin-offs in neighbouring regions. Being present in various economic sectors, the Innu and Quebecers would be more likely to share the same concerns and interests vis-à-vis regional development.