Denis Trottier, former member of the PQ for Roberval from 2007 to 2014, suggests that the Legault government explore the possibility of nationalizing the Rio Tinto dams.
Like other residents of Lac-Saint-Jean, he criticizes Rio Tinto’s management of the water. So much so that he sees only one solution.
“The government should explore the possibility of nationalizing the Rio Tinto dams,” he argued.
About ten days ago the level of the lake was below 14 feet. However, Rio Tinto is committed to keeping the depth between 14 and 16 feet. Former MP Trottier has criticized the company for regulating the level of the lake according to its own interests, to the detriment of the community’s interests.
“By producing less electricity, it’s possible to raise the level of the lake, but the company favors cash flow,” Mr. Trottier said. How much does it cost to have a lake at a reasonable level without jeopardizing a range of activities? While the company says it is not responsible for this situation, this is an unacceptable response.
“Rio Tinto says it’s doing its best, but we have to believe them,” added Riverains du Lac 2000 President Laurent-Paul Chartier.
The organization wants water levels to be at least 15.5 feet year-round.
“This is having an impact on marinas and visitors arriving by boat are finding there is a shortage of water,” Mr Chartier said.
Denis Trottier goes even further.
“It is not normal in 2023 that the lake is managed entirely by a multinational company,” he decided. We look like a banana republic!”
He recalls that the construction of dams for the Isle-Maligne aluminum smelter in 1926 flooded much of the agricultural land in Lac-Saint-Jean.
“But the economic impact was extremely significant, which is no longer the case today,” recalls Denis Trottier. We went from 10,000 jobs to 2,500. We observe our underdevelopment as spectators. Are we going to wait until we’re at 80 jobs before we say that’s enough?”
“An expert panel could tell us how much it would cost to nationalize the dams and also tell us what the pros and cons would be,” he added.
In a written statement, Rio Tinto says it is adjusting its electricity production to slow the decline in water levels. However, a minimum production volume must be observed.