Yukon News Releases
The Government of Yukon congratulates Dawson City on its new waste diversion and recycling facility
On May 19, Dawson City unveiled its new waste diversion and recycling centre. The Government of Yukon applauds municipal officials and staff for their efforts in constructing the facility and their leadership in moving toward a greener community.
Understanding the Early Years course provides opportunities for culturally competent early childhood educator training
This is a joint release between the governments of Yukon and Canada and the Yukon First Nations Education Directorate.
The Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada are committed to increasing access for all families to high-quality, affordable, flexible and inclusive early learning and child care across the Yukon.
Elijah Smith Elementary School celebrates installation of clean, sustainable heating system
The Elijah Smith Elementary School in Whitehorse is home to a new biomass heating system, building on the Government of Yukon's commitment to support a strong and sustainable future for generations to come.
Biomass is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Heat is created by burning organic matter like wood. This system will reduce the school's reliance on propane and lower its greenhouse emissions by approximately 180 tonnes annually.
Twelve community groups receive funding to support Yukon youth
The Government of Yukon recognizes the vital role of youth in shaping the future of the territory. To strengthen this role, 12 community groups from across the Yukon received over $59,000 through the Youth Investment Fund (YIF) for a range of artistic and recreational activities, such as therapeutic horseback riding, piano lessons, a rugby club and a theatrical presentation.
Statement from Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee on RCMP’s 150th Anniversary
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“Today marks 150 years since Parliament established the North-West Mounted Police, which would eventually become the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Old Crow residents celebrate the opening of the first assisted-living home for Elders in the community
This is joint news release between the governments of Yukon, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation and Canada.
The governments of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, Canada and the Yukon are pleased to announce the opening of the first assisted-living complex for Elders in Old Crow. An opening ceremony was held on May 19 in the community. This new facility means that Elders no longer have to move south to larger cities and away from their family supports to access the assisted-living care they need.
Government of Yukon commits to advancing the integration of cultural safety and humility into the health and social system
Recognizing and respectfully addressing power imbalances inherent to the health and social care system is a priority for the Government of Yukon. The Department of Health and Social Services has established a cultural safety team that will work to implement a more comprehensive, coordinated approach to cultural safety in the Yukon’s health and social system. This work will be foundational to implementing key commitments from the Putting People First report and approaches to care that will improve health outcomes for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
Yukon Emergency Medical Services team members recognized with national awards for exemplary service and excellence
Today, the Honourable Angélique Bernard, Commissioner of Yukon, awarded the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal to four Yukon Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team members.
This national award recognizes the good conduct, industry and efficiency of professionals who have provided pre-hospital emergency medical services to the public in an exemplary manner for at least 20 years. This year’s recipients are:
Statement from Premier Pillai on Victoria Day
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“For over 175 years, Canadians have celebrated this day as the birthday of our head of state, beginning with Her Imperial Majesty Queen Victoria. On Victoria Day, we reflect on the Crown’s contributions to Canada’s development and celebrate Canadian heritage and culture.
“Earlier this month, we watched the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and continue the Victoria Day tradition by celebrating our newest monarch on this day.
Congratulations to the Council of Yukon First Nations on the start of the construction of the Family Preservation Wellness Centre
The Government of Yukon congratulates the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) on the site blessing and groundbreaking ceremony for the Family Preservation Wellness Centre.
The ceremony took place on May 17, 2023 at 10 Eldorado Drive in Whistle Bend. The future site of the Family Preservation Wellness Centre is close to playgrounds, walking trails and the new Whistle Bend School. The Centre will have 15 apartments (32 beds) divided by high and lower barrier areas to safely meet the needs of women with children and women who require more support.
Yukon and federal government bilateral negotiations underway for the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence
The Yukon government has begun formal negotiations with the federal government to finalize its bilateral funding agreement and implementation plan for the territory under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
Provincial, territorial and federal governments, including the Government of Yukon, endorsed the 10-year National Action Plan in November 2022. This historic national plan builds on approaches and strategies to prevent and address gender-based violence with the goal of supporting victims, survivors and their families no matter where they live in Canada.
Northern Premiers meet in Inuvik to discuss shared priorities
Premier of the Yukon Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Northwest Territories Caroline Cochrane and Premier of Nunavut P.J. Akeeagok met for the annual Northern Premiers’ Forum, held this year in Inuvik, Northwest Territories on May 16 and 17.
The three leaders focused on shared priorities, reflecting on the state of the North and discussing issues including Arctic security, infrastructure, critical minerals, housing, labour markets, education and climate change.
Statement from the Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
Minister responsible for the Women and Gender Equity Directorate Jeanie McLean has issued the following statement:
“On May 17 over 130 countries around the world observe International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. This date was created in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex people, and all of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions and sex characteristics. This year's theme is "Together always: united in diversity".
Government of Yukon connects with municipal leaders at 2023 Association of Yukon Communities annual general meeting
Government of Yukon officials joined municipal representatives and community leaders in Watson Lake for the 2023 Association of Yukon Communities (AYC) annual general meeting (AGM).
Brush up on bear awareness this spring
As bears become active again, it is essential to stay vigilant and understand how to prevent and manage encounters while engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, enjoying neighborhood trails or even staying home.
Conservation officers are reminding the public to:
The Government of Yukon and the City of Whitehorse sign new tourism agreement
The Government of Yukon and the City of Whitehorse have renewed their commitment to collaborate on projects related to tourism and culture in Whitehorse through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The new Tourism Partnership agreement identifies a number of opportunities for the City and the Government of Yukon to work together and share information and resources in the promotion and development of Whitehorse and the Yukon as vibrant tourism destinations.
They include:
Cultural Olympics promotes French language and culture among high school students on Yukon Francophonie Day
The Department of Education held its first-ever Cultural Olympics in celebration of Yukon Francophonie Day yesterday afternoon. French-speaking high school students attended Rotary Park to participate in a variety of activities and celebrate Francophone cultures with peers.
The purpose of this event was to provide a platform for students to express themselves in French and enhance their language skills within an authentic cultural setting, while also facilitating interaction between students who speak French as a first or second language.
The sixth Housing Initiatives Fund intake boosts affordable housing availability across the Yukon
The sixth intake of the Housing Initiatives Fund (HIF) is supporting 11 shovel-ready projects throughout Yukon, which will construct approximately 159 new affordable homes across the territory.
Shovel-ready projects in Whitehorse will be led by the following proponents:
- Habitat for Humanity;
- Council of Yukon First Nations; and
- Grey Mountain Housing Society.
Shovel-ready projects in Yukon communities will be led by the following proponents:
Statement from the Minister responsible for the French Language Services Directorate John Streicker on Yukon Francophonie Day
Minister John Streicker has issued the following statement:
“Since 2007, the Government of Yukon has proudly recognized May 15 as Yukon Francophonie Day. On this special day, we celebrate 150 years of Francophone presence across the Yukon as well as the French language and the Francophone culture that continue to shape the history and identity of our territory.
Yukon government hires contractor to ensure environmental protection at the Minto Mine
The Government of Yukon has hired a contractor to ensure environmental protection is maintained at the Minto Mine.
The mine operator, Minto Metals Corporation, has indicated that it is not able to continue operations at the site.
JDS Mining has been immediately mobilized to the Minto Mine site under contract to the Government of Yukon. The company is familiar with the operation of the mine and has experience in mine site care and maintenance elsewhere in the Yukon.
