Some of the technical details on the proposed Muskrat Falls hydro project were signed Tuesday. After some final figures are pored over in a few weeks, the next step will be a special debate in the House of Assembly this fall.
That debate will prove interesting ... but it will be far from critical to whether the project goes ahead.
The provincial government seems determined to push ahead with the project and they have the political power to make that a reality.
There are many opponents to the project and they have raised pertinent questions but the reality is the premier and her minions believe it is best for the province and its residents.
There is still time for some tinkering over where the power is used, but basically the project will begin as soon as the financing can be arranged and the contracts let.
The ruling PCs are adamant this project is the cheapest way to assure stability in the cost of electricity for the people of this province and at the same time set the stage for selling the excess power for a profit.
The debate won't be a complete waste of time and energy.
The opposition parties should have some points that will improve the deal for the province.
We have seen in the past that rushing into arrangements and ignoring all outside advice has been costly in the long run.
The Dunderdale administration — if they are wise — should approach this process as a way to get a contrarian look at the agreement, one that can and should prove to be a positive exercise.
This project will be expensive and the agreements will last a couple of generations.
Let's get it right this time.
