Sept-Îles, Friday, September 12, 2025 – The Port of Sept-Îles, in collaboration with Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam and the City of Sept-Îles, today inaugurated its brand-new Innu Signature Pavilion. This unique venue becomes the welcoming gateway for cruise passengers arriving at the only St. Lawrence stopover whose main attraction is the discovery of Innu culture.
The opening ceremony began with an emotional moment, as Ms. Brigitte André, daughter of former Innu Chief Mathieu André, announced the building’s new designation in honour of her father: the traditional name Mishtanapeu Atshapi.
This announcement was followed by a purification ritual and a prayer led by an Elder from the community, then by a formal acknowledgment of the Innu territory on which the Port of Sept-Îles stands—a first in its history. The event concluded with a traditional meal and an outdoor gathering animated by Dan-Georges McKenzie, offering guests a festive and unifying experience.
Born from a co-creation process launched in 2022, the pavilion is much more than a simple reception space. It will house the offices of Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu, feature areas dedicated to showcasing local artisans, and serve as a cultural hub and gathering place year-round. Starting in the winter of 2027, it will also welcome winter cruises, further enhancing the city’s tourism appeal.
This $7.8 million project was made possible thanks to the financial support of the following partners:
- 3 M$ – Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
- 1,8 M$ – Société du Plan Nord
- 1,8 M$ – Port of Sept-Îles
- 500 k$ – Québec Ministry of Tourism
- 500 k$ – Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam
- 175 k$ – City of Sept-Îles
- 43 k$ – Côte-Nord Regional Tourism Association (ATR)Nord
The design draws inspiration from Innu architecture and cultural symbols, reflecting a shared desire to create a welcoming, distinctive, and meaningful space for both visitors and the community.
« We are proud to present the innue signature pavilion Mishtanapeu Atshapi. In addition to contributing to the revitalization of the waterfront area, it will now allow us to welcome winter cruises and serve as a true calling card for passengers arriving at the only St. Lawrence stopover offering the discovery of Innu culture as its main attraction. Our goal is to make this a place that the citizens of Sept-Îles can fully embrace, helping to make our waterfront more welcoming and vibrant. »
– Alexandra Chouinard, President and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles, and Pierre D. Gagnon, outgoing CEO
« Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam is pleased by the inauguration of this pavilion, a symbolic entry point for cruise passengers who visit our Nitassinan. Its design and purpose reflect the importance of a respectful dialogue between our Nations and our shared commitment to proudly share Innu heritage with the world. This major investment offers great opportunities for the development our tourism and cultural industries.»
– Jonathan Shetush, Chief, Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam
« I am delighted that the Government of Canada is supporting businesses and organizations in the North Shore tourism industry. CED’s financial contribution to the Sept-Îles Port Authority is excellent news for the region and its appeal. Thanks to our government’s investments in tourism experiences, we are ready to welcome tourists from here and abroad. »
– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for CED
«By welcoming our visitors and allowing North Shore residents to enjoy a gathering place, this new pavilion will further promote Innu culture. I am proud that our government has supported this project, which perfectly combines tourism and the sharing of Innu knowledge. I would like to commend the dedication of all those who contributed to this project.»
– Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Minister of Families, Minister Responsible for the Côte-Nord Region, and Member of the National Assembly for Duplessis
« With the support of the Société du Plan Nord’s opportunity budget, we are proud to be part of a project that promotes the richness of Innu culture in a welcoming space for international cruise ships. This innovative welcome pavilion, designed to be environmentally friendly, offers visitors an authentic experience anchored in deeply rooted local communities in the area.»
– Patrick Beauchesne, Chief Executive Officer, Société du Plan Nord
« Ville de Sept-Îles is proud to be a partner in a project that draws on Innu culture and rich traditions. With its originality and authenticity, this new reception pavilion is a remarkable asset for our region, both for welcoming cruise passengers from around the world and for bringing our communities together.»
– Denis Miousse, Mayor of Sept-Îles
About the Port of Sept-Îles
With its diversified and efficient facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is the largest mineral port in North America, with an expected volume of over 40 million tonnes in 2025. It is also recognized as the largest port terminal for the primary aluminum industry in the Americas in terms of activity volume. The port infrastructures in Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in supporting the economy of Eastern Canada. A pioneer on the St. Lawrence, the Port of Sept-Îles established the first environmental monitoring observatory of its marine ecosystem and created a research chair with Université Laval on coastal ecosystems and port activities. Sustainable development is deeply rooted in its values and actions.
– 30 –
Source :
Frédérick Tétreault
Director, Communications and Public Relations
Port of Sept-Îles
Tél. : 418 965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com