Peter Penashue says Innu Nation members should not lose sight of 'the big picture' in the New Dawn agreement. (CBC)

Opinions are divided among some Labrador Innu about who exactly will benefit from a yet-to-be-ratified deal with the Newfoundland and Labrador government over hydroelectric power.

The New Dawn agreement would settle a land claim, provide compensation for the Upper Churchill hydroelectric project and allow the undeveloped Lower Churchill hydro project to proceed.

Mary Madeline Nuna, one of a small group of Sheshatshiu residents who gathered just off a highway outside Happy Valley-Goose Bay on Wednesday to voice their concerns about the new deal, said she will oppose it because the Lower Churchill project would lead to another dam across the Churchill River.

"[I am] just thinking about the future generations of young people," Nuna, speaking through a translator, told CBC News. "When they're gone, when the elders are gone, they'll need places to hunt."

As part of a deal struck between the Innu Nation and the provincial government, about $400 million is set aside for Innu-owned businesses if the Lower Churchill megaproject proceeds.

Herman Montague is afraid that money will only benefit the leaders who negotiated the deals — many, he says, who have business connections.

"People don't have nothing, or don't have any business or don't want to have nothing to do with business. It's more for the leaders than anything else," he said.

Deputy Grand Chief Peter Penashue, who is also a partner in a number of businesses, including construction companies, said the tentative agreement holds much more than just business opportunities.

"If you get caught up on focusing your attention on a few individuals that you think will benefit, then you will lose the big picture," he said.

No date has yet been set for a vote on the agreement. It's expected within the next few months. Penashue said residents will have the opportunity to make their views known leading up to the vote.