Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Kathy Dunderdale.
The first throne speech in Newfoundland and Labrador since former premier Danny Williams resigned late last year signals a new tone with Ottawa as it touts a megaproject that could use federal help.
Premier Kathy Dunderdale used her first legislative blueprint to showcase the $6.2-billion Muskrat Falls hydroelectric venture in Labrador. The speech, read Monday by Lieutenant-Governor John Crosbie, promoted the development as a way for the province and Ottawa to work together. Relations between the two governments have smoothed of late but were notoriously rocky under Williams.
"This project is unequivocally in the best interests of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador," Mr. Crosbie read.
The province "has wrestled in recent years to be heard, understood and respected by federal leaders in meaningful ways on issues that matter most to our people, but today is a new day.
"Our Premier has presented to the Prime Minister Newfoundland and Labrador's compelling case for federal support for this national green-energy project."
The speech opened what is expected to be the last legislative session before the next provincial election set for Oct. 11.
Muskrat Falls, a joint plan with Nova Scotia to build a dam and power station on the lower Churchill River, is shaping up to be a key issue.
It could also influence support for federal Conservatives who face an election campaign starting as early as Friday. Ms. Dunderdale has asked Ottawa for loan guarantees that could shave hundreds of millions of dollars off the cost of the project.
Ms. Dunderdale told reporters Monday she isn't expecting an answer in the federal budget Tuesday because talks are continuing.
The throne speech was Ms. Dunderdale's first chance to chart her government's course since she took over when Mr. Williams quit politics in December.
At the time, Mr. Williams was embroiled in nasty rhetorical clashes with Quebec over hydroelectric developments, doctors who were without a provincial contract, and various perceived "traitors" who publicly questioned government policy.