Yukon News Releases
Yukon Francophonie Day funding program now open for applications
Yukon Francophonie Day funding program now open for applications
jlutz
January 13, 2025 - 9:39 am
The Office of the Commissioner of Yukon is now accepting applications for the Yukon Francophonie Day funding program. This program offers $15,000 in annual funding to support events that bring Yukoners together to celebrate Yukon Francophonie Day.
This program supports community groups, businesses, municipalities and educational institutions in hosting events promoting the vitality and diversity of the Yukon Francophonie.
To be eligible, events must:
- take place between May 10 and May 15;
- showcase a French-language or Francophone culture component;
- be free of charge (no admission fees or donation required for entry);
- be open to the public and promoted as such, except for activities organized in schools and daycares; and
- be held in the Yukon.
Priority is given to events scheduled on Yukon Francophonie Day, May 15.
The deadline to submit funding applications is February 14, 2025.
I’m excited to support the Yukon Francophonie Day funding program again this year. This program celebrates the richness and diversity that the French language and Francophone culture bring to the Yukon. I invite all Yukoners to seize this opportunity to share and showcase the Yukon’s vibrant Francophonie in their community.
Commissioner of Yukon Adeline Webber
Quick facts-
Since 2007, the Government of Yukon has proclaimed May 15 Yukon Francophonie Day, which allows all Yukoners to appreciate and celebrate the rich history and vitality of the Yukon Francophone community.
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Yukon Francophonie Day reminds us that French-speaking people have been contributing to the Yukon culturally, economically and socially for almost 200 years.
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Since 2023, the Office of the Commissioner of Yukon has annually provided $15,000 in funding for the organization of community-based events to celebrate Yukon Francophonie Day.
Breanna Leavoy
Private Secretary to Commissioner of Yukon
Executive Council Office
867-456-6548
Breanna.leavoy@yukon.ca
Navigation Service facilitates foreign credential recognition for health care workers
Navigation Service facilitates foreign credential recognition for health care workers
jlutz
January 9, 2025 - 1:05 pm
The Government of Yukon has launched the Foreign Credential Recognition Navigation Service. The Navigation Service is a pilot project that helps internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) by offering tailored support to facilitate integration with the Yukon’s labour force. The service will connect individuals to a navigator who can:
- provide information on licensing requirements;
- connect individuals with settlement service providers;
- identify special training opportunities; and
- offer one-on-one pathway counselling.
IEHPs who are already in the Yukon may be eligible for financial assistance to help with the costs of exams, licensing or credential assessments.
This service is available to IEHPs who are either already living in the Yukon or can demonstrate firm and imminent plans to do so. Participants must be:
- living in the Yukon or living in Canada and can demonstrate established plans to move to the Yukon within the next three months;
- legally allowed to work in Canada;
- trained internationally and hold foreign credentials in a regulated health profession; and
- pursuing work in a Yukon health care job within the next two years.
IEHPs seeking to have their credentials recognized to enable them to work in the Yukon now have access to this support service. To access the Navigation Service, IEHPs must submit their information to the Department of Economic Development. This will help the navigator learn about the IEHP’s unique situation so that they may provide support.
Find more information on the Navigation Service webpage at yukon.ca/foreign-credentials.
A strong health care system is built on the expertise and dedication of those who serve it. By supporting internationally trained professionals through credential recognition, we will be able to better address labour shortages, skills gaps and health care burnout. There are individuals in this territory who are internationally educated but who may not be employed in their field or at the proper level of their training. This new service will help these individuals leverage their expertise and contribute to the overall health and wellness of Yukoners.
Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai
This new Navigation Service is an important step in addressing the Yukon’s health workforce challenges by supporting internationally educated health professionals as they integrate into our health care system. By connecting IEHPs with tailored guidance and resources, we’re creating opportunities for skilled professionals to contribute to the health and wellbeing of Yukoners. This initiative reflects our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive health care system that meets the needs of our growing population.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
Quick facts-
Before this program, Yukon IEHPs did not have a guided pathway or clear point of contact to obtain their credentials or get help navigating a complex system. This navigator program provides the clarity, guidance and support they need to get their Yukon health care credentials.
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This Navigation Service is part of the larger Foreign Credential Recognition Project. The Foreign Credential Recognition Project overall aims to reduce barriers to foreign credential recognition, identify regulatory processes that can be streamlined and facilitate labour mobility across Canadian jurisdictions. In this way, the Government of Yukon is working to both reduce the number of underemployed health care workers and fill vital health care positions across the territory.
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The Foreign Credential Recognition Project is supported by $3.6 million in funding provided by the Government of Canada.
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Recruitment was identified as one of the pillars in the Yukon’s Health Human Resources Strategy. The Navigation Service helps to address Initiative 2.3. (Streamline licensing pathways) and Initiative 2.6 (Establishing a clear IEHP integration pathway).
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-333-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
Jennifer Hackwell
Communications, Economic Development
867-667-5378
jennifer.hackwell@yukon.ca
Government of Yukon and the Council of Yukon First Nations announce collaborative community health and wellness planning
Government of Yukon and the Council of Yukon First Nations announce collaborative community health and wellness planning
zaburke
January 7, 2025 - 9:43 am
This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Council of Yukon First Nations.
The Government of Yukon, in partnership with the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN), is launching a comprehensive engagement process to develop community health and wellness plans with rural communities.
The Government of Yukon has provided funding to CYFN to increase capacity and work with Yukon First Nations in the creation of these community plans. The engagement will include discussions with Yukon First Nations, municipal governments, local health service providers, Indigenous organizations, including Indigenous women’s organizations, other non-government organizations and the public. These plans will identify locally relevant health and wellness priorities and will inform the development of the 10-year Yukon Health and Wellness Plan.
Under the new Health Authority Act, Shäw Kwä’ą is required to consider the provisions of the Community Health and Wellness Plans when developing its Strategic Plan. This connection between community health and wellness plans and the 10-year system-level plan ensures that community health priorities inform the broader Yukon Health and Wellness Plan, promoting coherence and consistency in achieving the shared vision of improved health outcomes across Yukon.
The development of community health and wellness plans will emphasize inclusivity, cultural safety and shared responsibility. Phase 1 will focus on defining wellness and identifying priorities, while Phase 2 will involve presenting draft plans for community validation and feedback before finalization.
Community health and wellness plans align with government commitments to improve health care integration and enhance accessibility. This initiative supports key strategies for health and social services including the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, Aging in Place Strategy, the LGBTQ2S+ Action Plan, Yukon’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-spirit+ People Strategy and other significant action plans.
This new partnership between the Government of Yukon and the Council of Yukon First Nations marks a significant step in shaping the future of health and wellness across rural communities. By engaging with First Nations, local governments and health care providers, we are helping ensure that community-driven priorities guide the development of a comprehensive, long-term health plan. This initiative will promote inclusivity, cultural safety, and shared responsibility, placing the voices of Yukoners at the heart of the path toward improved health outcomes through community wellness plans.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
We are excited that this initiative prioritizes culturally safe and tailored engagement, making sure every community's voice is heard while shaping their health and wellness priorities. We are looking forward to engaging with communities to co-create plans that include local knowledge and cultural relevance.
Chair of the Chiefs Committee on Health Chief Pauline Frost
Quick facts-
The Community Health and Wellness Plans will be co-designed with community members including representatives from Yukon First Nations, municipalities, Indigenous organizations, including Indigenous women’s organizations and health providers.
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Engagement activities will include culturally safe and equitable processes tailored to each community's needs.
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The work will begin with outreach to communities to coordinate engagements, beginning in early 2025.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
Nigel Allan
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-332-9576
nigel.allan@yukon.ca
Roni-Sue Sparvier
Council of Yukon First Nations
867-393-9200 ext.9223
communications@cyfn.net
The Government of Yukon pauses the Affordable Heat Pump Program due to high demand
The Government of Yukon pauses the Affordable Heat Pump Program due to high demand
zaburke
January 6, 2025 - 3:18 pm
The Affordable Heat Pump Program (AHPP) is fully subscribed through 2025, with 84 households receiving heat pumps through the program since the program launched on December 19, 2024.
The rapid uptake of the program exceeded expectations, demonstrating Yukoners’ interest in switching to more efficient electric heating sources that result in lower utility costs.
All new applications will be placed on a waitlist. This waitlist will prioritize applications based on the order in which they were submitted, ensuring fairness and transparency for any future program intake.
John Thompson
Communications, Energy, Mines and Resources
867-332-6042
John.Thompson@Yukon.ca
Government of Yukon seeks input on updating the Health Professions Act
Government of Yukon seeks input on updating the Health Professions Act
zaburke
January 6, 2025 - 9:58 am
The Government of Yukon invites health professionals and the public to share their input on updating the Health Professions Act. The Yukon’s Health Professions Act sets the rules for licensing and overseeing health professionals to ensure they provide safe and high-quality care. This modernization aims to address the Yukon’s unique needs, enhance professional standards and simplify the licensing process under a unified framework.
Targeted consultations with health professionals will focus on effective regulation, while feedback from the public, particularly regarding the complaints process, will help ensure health care is accessible and culturally safe. This input will guide the development of a framework that removes barriers and promotes fair, transparent care for Yukoners.
A summary of the engagement process will be published by spring 2025, with the revised Health Professions Act expected to be tabled in fall 2027.
We're updating the Health Professions Act to better serve Yukoners and strengthen our health care system, and we need input from Yukoners to get it right. This modernization aligns with national efforts to attract and retain health professionals by making the Yukon a more appealing place to live and work. The revised Act will cut red tape, offer greater flexibility for licensing during challenges like pandemics and health workforce shortages, and recognize expanded scopes of practice in diverse health fields ensuring Yukoners have access to the care they need.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
Our government is modernizing how health care professionals are licensed and regulated in the Yukon. This work is breaking trail along the path envisioned in our Health Human Resources Strategy and Putting People First, continuing to make improvements to our health care system for both patients and professionals.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
Quick facts-
The 13 health professions that the Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Branch of Community Services currently regulates and licenses include:
o licensed practical nurses;
o registered psychiatric nurses;
o midwives;
o pharmacists;
o physiotherapists;
o optometrists;
o chiropractors;
o dental therapists;
o dental hygienists;
o dentists;
o denturists;
o psychologists; and
o physicians (in conjunction with the Yukon Medical Council).
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The Yukon Registered Nurses Association regulates and licenses registered nurses and nurse practitioners.
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The Government of Yukon is continuing its work to regulate social workers.
o The Government of Yukon has met with the Association of Social Workers in Northern Canada to discuss regulating social workers.
o Discussions have focused on the need to modernize the Health Professions Act before adding new professions.
o The government looks forward to working with social workers and the association to understand the requirements for any proposed changes.
The Government of Yukon currently regulates and licenses 13 health professions; some fall under the Health Professions Act and some have their own Acts.
Public engagement opportunities include the following.
- Online survey - Available from January 6 to February 7, 2025, developed in partnership with the Yukon Bureau of Statistics.
- Paper copies of the survey - Accessible at territorial agent offices, community libraries and the Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Office in Whitehorse. Completed surveys can be mailed in self-addressed envelopes, postmarked no later than February 7, 2025.
- In-person public engagement session - Held on January 21, 2025, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre in Whitehorse.
- Online engagement session - Scheduled for January 28, 2025, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The link to participate will be available at Yukon.ca/engagements.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
Laura.Seeley@yukon.ca
Taylor Harvey
Community Services
867-332-1237
Taylor.harvey@yukon.ca
Government of Yukon provides update on heap leach failure response at Eagle Gold Mine
Government of Yukon provides update on heap leach failure response at Eagle Gold Mine
zaburke
January 3, 2025 - 1:42 pm
On December 28, 2024, PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc., the court appointed Receiver for Victoria Gold Corp., issued a notification to the Government of Yukon and the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun regarding a potential leak in a newly constructed containment pond. The notification was prompted by irregularities in storage pond volumes. Regulatory and enforcement agencies have been notified and ongoing water quality monitoring results will determine if a leak may be impacting Haggart Creek.
The Government of Yukon continues to work closely with the Receiver’s and First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun’s technical team to determine the cause of irregularities in storage pond volumes and potential impacts to the environment. In the meantime, temporary measures have been approved to dilute the pond’s water to reduce its toxicity. Enhanced monitoring of groundwater and surface water in Haggart Creek is underway to track any environmental impacts.
These actions, along with emergency approvals to prevent overflows of untreated water, are part of the Yukon government’s ongoing efforts as the primary territorial regulator and enforcement body for the mine site to manage the situation responsibly and minimize environmental impacts. The Receiver is now in control of the mine site for the purpose of carrying out remediation of the failure and its impacts. The Receiver is overseeing and facilitating the work with the input and support of the Yukon government and is responsible for implementing all directions issued by the Government of Yukon and federal regulators.
Environmental mitigation measures
- Monitoring pond volumes in winter conditions is not precise due to snow and ice formation and the expected settling of newly constructed ponds.
- Further work is required to determine if the reduction in volume is due to settlement and ice formation or if water has leaked into the environment.
- The Receiver, with input from the Government of Yukon, is conducting further assessments to determine the cause of decreased pond levels and options to mitigate a potential release of pond water.
- Water levels on site are at a critical level and more storage within this pond is necessary to reduce the risk of other ponds with cyanide-contaminated water from overflowing.
- Treated water is being pumped to the pond on a temporary basis to, among other things, dilute the water stored in this area and reduce the potential for environmental impacts. Storage of treated water in the pond is the most environmentally protective option under the current circumstances.
- Increased environmental monitoring is underway in the area including sampling of pond water for quality and toxicity, monitoring of adjacent groundwater wells and surface water monitoring in Haggart Creek.
- The Receiver’s water treatment specialist is currently investigating additional treatment steps to reduce copper prior to discharge.
- These most recent water quality results continue to be posted on yukon.ca and the Government of Yukon will continue to provide regular updates on a monthly schedule.
Yukon Water Board licence amendment
- PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc., the court-appointed Receiver, is in control of the mine site for the purpose of overseeing the work involved in remediation of the heap leach failure and its impacts.
- On December 20, 2024, the Yukon Water Board approved the Receiver’s application for an emergency amendment to the site’s water licence to allow for the discharge of partially treated water.
- Under the amended licence, partially treated water will be non-toxic but will have higher levels of copper, particulate solids and cyanide than previously allowed. The levels in the amended licence are consistent with federal regulations that set standards aimed at avoiding harm to fish and aquatic species.
Devon Seaman
Communications, Energy, Mines and Resources
867-332-9281
devon.seaman@yukon.ca
Jake Wilson
Communications, Environment
867-334-8390
jake.wilson@yukon.ca
Government of Yukon proposes new developments at Pine Lake Campground
Government of Yukon proposes new developments at Pine Lake Campground
zaburke
January 3, 2025 - 11:04 am
The Government of Yukon is submitting a proposal to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) for planned developments at Pine Lake Campground. The proposed project is set to take place over a five-year period beginning in 2025 and aims to enhance the park’s infrastructure and recreational offerings for park users.
Key highlights of the proposal include:
- up to 16 new drive-in-pull-through campsites and six walk-in tenting campsites to accommodate a growing number of park visitors and enhance camping opportunities;
- establishing a new group camping area with six campsites, offering dedicated space for group gatherings and events, including tourism operators; and
- upgrades and expansions to the park's hiking trail network, along with new recreational features, to enhance access to scenic areas and offer more opportunities for outdoor activities.
The Government of Yukon is committed to balancing infrastructure and recreational development with environmental protection and will ensure all necessary assessments and consultations are undertaken. The development of these amenities is expected to improve the overall experience at Pine Lake Campground, provide sustainable recreational opportunities and support the long-term conservation of the area.
The public and stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposal and provide feedback through YESAB as part of the environmental and socio-economic assessment process.
The proposed improvements to Pine Lake Campground will enhance recreational opportunities for Yukoners and visitors alike. The project includes new campsites, upgraded hiking trails, and dedicated group camping areas, ensuring the park remains sustainable and accessible. Throughout this process, we will work closely with Champagne and Aishihik First Nations to ensure that their knowledge, values and interests are integrated into the project.
Minister of Environment Nils Clarke
Quick facts-
The Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) is an independent board that operates under the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act (YESAA).
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YESAB plays a role in reviewing and assessing the environmental and socio-economic impacts of projects and proposals in the Yukon.
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When a government submits a proposal, YESAB seeks views and information to gather feedback from the public, communities, First Nations and other stakeholders about potential concerns with the proposed project.
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After completing its review, YESAB provides its recommendations to the Government of Yukon. The government then decides whether to approve or reject the proposal and may include conditions in its decision if the project is approved
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Pine Lake Campground is situated within Pine Lake Recreation Park.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
Linea Volkering
Communications, Environment
867-332-2688
linea.volkering@yukon.ca
Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on the three-year anniversary of the Supervised Consumption Site
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
Statement from Minister McLean on World Teachers’ Day
Minister of Education Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:
“We celebrate the work of educators every day, but especially today on World Teachers’ Day.
"October 5 marks the anniversary of the Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This recommendation sets essential standards for teachers’ rights, responsibilities and professional development.
Statement from Minister McLean on Sisters in Spirit Vigil and National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People
Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:
“Today, I ask all Yukoners to join me in recognizing the Sisters in Spirit Vigil and the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit+ People.
Statement from Minister Jeanie McLean on Women’s History Month
Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:
“As the Yukon Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate, I am proud to recognize Women’s History Month in Canada and the Yukon this October.
Statement from Premier Pillai on the European delegation visit
Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
Yukon government working to advance Yukoners' priorities this summer
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:
“Over the spring and summer, our government worked hard on behalf of Yukoners, here at home as well as in other Canadian jurisdictions, always keeping Yukoners at the heart of every meeting and discussion.
“In April, I had the opportunity to attend the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage, where we joined policymakers, diplomats, Indigenous leaders and experts to discuss key Alaska-Yukon priorities, such as economic development, infrastructure, energy and environmental stewardship.
2024 summer camping season ends, and progress continues on Yukon Parks Strategy
Another Yukon summer camping season has come to a close. The territory is home to some of Canada’s most beautiful campgrounds and parks, and the Government of Yukon is committed to enhancing recreation opportunities while improving fair access to campsites.
Traffic Safety Act tabled in the Yukon Legislative Assembly
Today, Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke tabled Bill 44, the Traffic Safety Act, in the Yukon Legislative Assembly. This proposed legislation would replace the outdated Motor Vehicles Act with a modern, forward-thinking approach to traffic safety on the Yukon’s highways.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Canadian Islamic History Month
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“In Canada, October provides an opportunity to recognize Canadian Islamic History Month. Throughout this month, we honour the diverse histories, cultures and achievements of the Muslim Canadian community, which has played an integral role in shaping Canada's identity, as well as our identity here in the Yukon.
Supplementary Estimates address health care needs and emergency response in the Yukon, while maintaining surplus position
Minister of Finance Sandy Silver tabled the 2024–25 Supplementary Estimates No. 1 in the Yukon Legislative Assembly today. The Supplementary Estimates forecasts a $150.1 million increase to the operations and maintenance (O&M) budget from the spring, offset by $20.7 million in recoveries. Capital funding has decreased by $299,000.
Statement from Minister Mostyn on Library Month in the Yukon
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn has issued the following statement:
“October is National Library Month, and I’m thrilled to invite Yukoners to join us in celebrating the incredible impact libraries have on our communities. Across the country, and here in the Yukon, libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are hubs of cultural enrichment, learning and community engagement.
“Yukon Public Libraries is joining libraries across the country in celebrating and raising awareness of the valuable role libraries play.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Rosh Hashanah
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
"This evening at sunset, the Jewish community in the Yukon will join with Jewish communities across Canada and around the world to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
“Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the 10-day High Holy Days, culminating in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. It’s a time of deep reflection and a moment to look back on the past year, seek forgiveness and prepare for the year ahead with hope and renewal.
RSV, COVID-19 and Flu vaccines now available for fall 2024 in the Yukon
Starting October 1, the Government of Yukon will begin offering respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19 and flu vaccines for high-risk individuals, including those 75+ and those aged 60+ and living in long-term care facilities. For the first two weeks priority will be given to high-risk individuals.
