[4][1] The argument in favor for the construction of the La Romaine hydroelectric complex revolves around the positive economic and climate impacts that the project promised.

They argued that the project would ensure a reliable energy supply and surplus that would allow for industry growth, all at a competitive electricity price.

[11] Hydroelectric power, like other forms of renewable energy, has a much lower greenhouse gas emissions than other sources of electricity.

[15] In July 2013 Alstom was awarded a contract to supply, install and commission two 200MW vertical Francis turbine-generator units, with butterfly valves and regulation systems, at Romaine-3.

[16] In September 2013 Hydro-Quebec called for bids to construct the dam and embankment B3, excavate the spillway and intake channel, and undertake other related work.

[11] As a consequence of the diminishing available habitats resulting from the establishment of water reservoirs and extensive logging practices within the region, there is a projected decline foreseen in the population of Woodland caribou.

[11] This anticipated decline is intricately linked to the sensitivity exhibited by caribou in their migratory behaviors towards various human-induced activities such as construction undertakings, heightened vehicular traffic, the existence of substantial structures, and amplified levels of ambient noise.

[19] The unfortunate reduction in the number of Woodland caribou is poised to negatively impact the longstanding and integral traditional activities practiced by the Innu communities in the affected area.

[11] It's noteworthy that in 2003, the Innu of Ekuanitshit petitioned the federal courts, seeking intervention to halt the proposed construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Romaine River (White, 2012).

[20] In the joint review panel, multiple organizations came forward to voice concerns for the birdlife that lives in the affected area of the La Romaine Hydroelectric Complex.

The species of concern included the Barrow’s Goldeneye, Sternidae, Boreal Pewee, Rusty Blackbird, and Kirtland’s Warbler.

[11] Additionally, there were allegations that Hydro-Québec had not considered the possible effects that the hydroelectric plant would have on specific species that were already experiencing population decline.

Environmental and habitat transformations caused by human activity, such as the construction of a hydroelectric dam, are recognized as the biggest reason for population decline and species loss in freshwater systems.

[25] When soil is flooded, the breaking down of labile organic carbon and subsequent changes in geochemical conditions causes the production of methylmercury (MeHg).

[24] In the newly created reservoirs of other Canadian hydroelectric dams, methylmercury levels have seen a 2.6-2.8 times increase in concentration.

Acute MeHg toxicity is associated with widespread neurological abnormalities, paresthesia and ataxia.”[24] The primary controversy surrounding the La Romaine Hydroelectric Complex predominantly revolves around its impact on the Innu tribal group.

[11] Over the span of thousands of years, the Innu have established their livelihood through the time-honored practice of fishing for char, eel, brook trout, and whitefish in the upper reaches of the Romaine River.

[27] Additionally, during the summer seasons, they have historically harvested salmon from the pools downstream of the Grandes Chutes, sustaining their cultural practices and heritage.

[27] This divergence of opinions further complicates the resolution of the ongoing debate surrounding the La Romaine Hydroelectric Complex.

[10] Hydro-Québec had to negotiate several agreements of consent with the local Innu communities, paying more than CDN$200 million over a 60-year period to compensate for the effects of the dams, roads and electric transmission lines.

There was an absence of meaningful intercultural relationships due to language barriers and separation of different trades, leading to Innu workers feeling as though they were experiencing discrimination, intimidation, and even racism.

[29] All of these issues lead to many Innu workers experiencing loneliness, isolation, psychological distress, and even falling into alcoholism and drug addiction.