Yukon News Releases
Government of Yukon releases reports on 405 Alexander Street
The Government of Yukon is committed to ending and preventing homelessness, tackling the Substance Use Health Emergency, promoting reconciliation and health equity, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Yukoners.
As part of this work, the Yukon government released independent reports from House of Wolf & Associates and Vink Consulting on safety and wellness issues connected to 405 Alexander Street and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Lottery and tender open for lots in Yukon communities
As part of its commitment to make housing more accessible and more affordable in the territory, the Government of Yukon has launched multiple lottery and tender processes for land in numerous Yukon communities.
Twenty-five residential lots are being released today by public lottery in Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo and Watson Lake. This lot release builds on the Yukon government’s commitment to making more land available to Yukoners.
One industrial lot in Dawson City and two industrial lots in Ross River are available via tender.
New online Flood Atlas launched to strengthen public safety and provide information about potential flooding
The Government of Yukon has launched a new online Flood Atlas, making it simpler to access details on flood-related alerts and long-term flood preparation in the territory.
The Flood Atlas website displays flood-related advisories and provides an overall picture of potential flood situations, along with information about the government’s official flood mapping initiative and links to resources about Yukon water science and flood preparedness. The Flood Atlas is also designed to streamline the process of issuing flood warnings to the public.
Yukon Public Libraries welcomes CBC Kids Book Club Live
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Kids Book Club Live is heading to the Whitehorse Public Library on Wednesday, May 10. CBC Kids hosts Janaye and Gary the Unicorn will share their love of reading at a free special event.
The visit will include musical story times featuring special guest authors Georgette McLeod, author of Shëtsey (My Grandpa) and Tedd Tucker, author of The Yukon Alphabet Book. Meet and greets, giveaways and more are planned.
The Government of Yukon releases progress report for Creative and Cultural Industries Strategy
A report released today outlines progress made during Phase One of the implementation of Creative Potential: Advancing the Yukon's Creative and Cultural Industries.
The primary focus of Phase One is assessing and addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and positioning the sector within Yukon’s broader economic recovery.
Highlights from the report include:
Statement from Premier Pillai on World Press Freedom Day
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“Today, on the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, we celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom and the vital role of free and independent media in our democracy.
Premier Pillai wraps up Yukon economic development-focused trip to Toronto, signs memorandum of understanding with Premier Ford
Capping off a two-day trip to Toronto focused on promoting investment and economic development opportunities in the Yukon, Premier Ranj Pillai and Premier Doug Ford finalized a memorandum of understanding on collaboration in the housing development and investment sectors.
Commissioner of Yukon celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Commissioner of Yukon Angélique Bernard participated in the 60th anniversary celebrations of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Vancouver on April 26 and 27. Commissioner Bernard was in attendance at the invitation of Stephen De-Wint, national executive director of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award – Canada.
Yukon Historical & Museums Association to deliver Yukon 125 Fund
This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Yukon Historical & Museums Association.
The Government of Yukon and the Yukon Historical & Museums Association have partnered to offer the Yukon 125 Fund to help tell Yukon stories from all perspectives as the territory marks its 125th anniversary.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Asian Heritage Month
The following statement was released by Premier Ranj Pillai:
“May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada.
“Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to reflect on and recognize the many contributions that Canadians of Asian heritage have made and continue to make to Canada.
Executive Council Office Deputy Minister resigns
Michael Hale, Deputy Minister for the Executive Council Office and Cabinet secretary has resigned from the Government of Yukon.
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on Canadian Jewish Heritage Month
The following statement was released by Premier Ranj Pillai:
“Since 2018, Canadians have recognized May as Canadian Jewish Heritage Month.
“While overcoming significant obstacles, the Canadian Jewish community has made many important contributions to the social, economic, political and cultural fabric of Canada.
“The Yukon’s Jewish population is small but vibrant, warm and welcoming. We are grateful to have the Jewish Cultural Society of Yukon represent Jewish Yukoners and bring their culture to the forefront.
Government of Yukon expands Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program to provide support for alcohol use disorder
Yukoners diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) can now apply for exception drug coverage under the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program. The program supports individuals living with a chronic disease or disability by covering costs for prescription drugs and medical equipment. The program has now expanded to include coverage for AUD medications.
Government of Yukon expands support for Yukoners with dementia
The Government of Yukon has finalized an agreement with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. to expand dementia services across the territory. This aligns with the Yukon government’s efforts to provide supports for seniors and caregivers and implement recommendations from Putting People First and the Aging in Place Action Plans.
The Yukon dementia support expansion is intended to inform, educate and support Yukon-based community members and health care providers who are either living with dementia or providing personal or professional care for someone living with dementia.
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister responsible for Yukon Workers’ Compensation Health and Safety Board Richard Mostyn on the National Day of Mourning
The following statement was released by Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister responsible for Yukon Workers’ Compensation Health and Safety Board Richard Mostyn:
“Today Yukoners and people around the world pause to pay respect to those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness due to a work-related incident.
“On this date, April 28, we renew our steadfast commitment to health and safety in the workplace.
Statement from Premier Pillai on passing of Ta’an Kwäch’än Council Elder Shirley Adamson
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“My heart is heavy as I join the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and the Yukon community in mourning the loss of the incredible Elder and matriarch Shirley Adamson. Her passing is a profound loss to her family, community, and to all those whose lives she touched with her wisdom, kindness, and leadership.
“Shirley was a respected leader, community member, and a life-long advocate for Indigenous language, cultural and governance revitalization. Her legacy will continue to impact and inspire generations to come.
Budget passes at the conclusion of the 2023 Spring Sitting of the Yukon Legislative Assembly
Today, with the conclusion of the 2023 Spring Sitting of the Yukon Legislative Assembly, the Government of Yukon passed its 2023-24 Budget, and several other pieces of legislation received assent.
Budget 2023-24 demonstrates the territory’s robust position nationally, with the Government of Yukon taking real action to make life more affordable for Yukoners, strengthen the health care and social services system, build resiliency to climate change, and invest in a more equitable future where all residents benefit from a thriving economy.
Land lottery and tender offers 119 lots in Whistle Bend
Yesterday, the Government of Yukon reached an important milestone in making more land available to Yukoners.
Following the release of lots in the Whistle Bend subdivision of Whitehorse earlier this spring, the Yukon government has offered 82 single-family lots to applicants through public lottery. Four multi-family lots and 33 townhouse lots were offered to successful bidders through the tender process.
Applications were accepted between March 31 and April 18, 2023. Successful applicants were contacted following the draw and bid opening.
Government of Yukon provides increased funding to Yukon municipalities
The Government of Yukon is committed to supporting effective local governance and sustainable local services in the Yukon and is increasing funding for communities to deliver programs and services to growing populations.
The Yukon’s eight municipalities received more than $22 million through the 2023 Comprehensive Municipal Grant, an increase of $1.1 million over 2022.
Minister of Education delivers 2022 Annual Report
Together with partners in the education field, the Government of Yukon is reimagining the Yukon school system and working to create school environments that are safe, inclusive and build on student strengths.
Today, the Honourable Jeanie McLean tabled the 2022 Annual Report for the Department of Education in the Yukon Legislative Assembly, highlighting progress in supporting learners, fulfilling commitments with Yukon First Nations, and helping ensure student and staff health and safety.
