Yukon News Releases
Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on Blue Monday and available mental health support and resources
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“Blue Monday, often considered the gloomiest day of the year, is an opportunity to consider the health and wellbeing of ourselves and those around us. In the Yukon, it holds added significance as we navigate long, dark and cold winters.
“Mental health challenges may arise from the prolonged periods of darkness during the winter. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of active mental health strategies and the value of community support.
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on recent meetings with Kluane First Nation, White River First Nation and Carcross/Tagish First Nation
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“This past week I had the pleasure of connecting separately with the government leadership of Kluane First Nation, White River First Nation and Carcross/Tagish First Nation in their respective communities.
“At these meetings with Yukon First Nation Chiefs and Council members, we discussed items of common interest and opportunities for us to continue working together on shared priorities.
Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“Alzheimer's Awareness Month is an annual campaign that takes place every January to raise awareness and understanding of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on Yukoners. It is also an opportunity to educate about the signs, risks and possible preventative measures related to dementia and Alzheimer’s.
What We Heard report released on the Yukon River crossing in Dawson City
The Government of Yukon has released a What We Heard report following engagement with Dawson City residents on the Yukon River crossing.
In spring and summer of 2023, the Government of Yukon collected feedback from Dawson residents on the current methods of crossing the Yukon River and what is important to them when planning for the future of this crossing.
Statement from Minister of Highways and Public Works on major infrastructure upgrades at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport
Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke has issued the following statement:
“Today, our government, alongside the Government of Canada, announced funding towards reconstructing the main runway and other critical improvements at the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport.
“Our government is proud to invest $62 million towards these projects. We are grateful for the Government of Canada’s contribution of more than $186 million to further strengthen this important work.
Statement from the Minister of Highways and Public Works on the Nisutlin Bay Bridge replacement project
The Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke has issued the following statement:
“The Nisutlin Bay Bridge project is the most significant infrastructure project ever undertaken in the territory. Not only will this new bridge result in significant positive economic outcomes for the territory, local businesses, and the community of Teslin, it will improve safety for pedestrians, drivers and cyclists.
“Our government remains committed to keeping Yukoners informed about the progress of this important undertaking.
Senior leadership changes in the Government of Yukon
Premier Ranj Pillai has announced senior leadership changes in the departments of Environment, Economic Development and the French Language Services Directorate.
The current deputy minister of the Environment and French Language Services Directorate Manon Moreau will be retiring from the Government of Yukon.
Michael Prochazka will be the deputy minister of the Department of Environment. Mr. Prochazka has been serving as the acting deputy minister of the Department of Economic Development since May 2023.
Government of Yukon invites public input on draft flood hazard maps for Southern Lakes area and Carmacks
The Government of Yukon is seeking public feedback on draft flood hazard maps for the Southern Lakes area and the community of Carmacks. Feedback received can contribute to refinements in the maps where the data inputs did not fully capture real conditions.
2022 Yukon Sustainable Tourism Annual Report released
The Government of Yukon has released the inaugural 2022 Yukon Sustainable Tourism Annual Report. The report establishes baseline data for key elements identified in the Yukon Sustainable Tourism Framework.
Monitoring and reporting on the key elements will provide the tourism sector with knowledge on the state of sustainability within the industry from year to year and go beyond traditional measurement techniques.
Statement from Minister Clarke on funding for active transportation on the Takhini River bridge and pedestrian safety improvements in Watson Lake
Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke has issued the following statement:
“Making it safer and easier for people to walk, cycle, kicksled, ski and use other forms of active transportation creates opportunities for Yukoners to live healthier lives while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building more inclusive communities. Our government aims to incorporate active transportation wherever possible in major infrastructure projects, including in the design of highways and other transportation infrastructure.
Every Student, Every Day fund commits $400,000 to fund student attendance projects in 2024
This is a joint release with Victoria Gold Yukon Student Encouragement Society.
Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024–25 school year for Every Student, Every Day, a funding program run by the Victoria Gold Yukon Student Encouragement Society in collaboration with the Government of Yukon.
This funding initiative allocates $400,000 for projects aimed at improving student attendance in the 2024–25 school year.
Statement from Premier Pillai on critical minerals and energy meeting with Minister Wilkinson
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:
“On January 5, I met with the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson about mining and critical minerals in the Yukon alongside Yukon MP Brendan Hanley and Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Orthodox Christmas and Orthodox New Year celebrations
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:
“As the Orthodox Christian community gathers to celebrate Orthodox Christmas and New Year, I extend my warmest wishes to all Orthodox Yukoners who observe these significant moments of reflection and renewal.
Update on the status of the Dawson ice bridge for January 5, 2024
The Government of Yukon understands the importance of the ice bridge to Dawson residents and is committed to keeping the public informed on the progress of its construction. The Yukon River in Dawson shows signs of ice formation but not enough to build an ice bridge at this time.
Statement from Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke and Minister of Education Jeanie McLean on winter back-to-school safety
Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke and Minister of Education Jeanie McLean have issued the following statement:
“Students throughout the Yukon will soon return to school and we wish them a successful winter semester after what we hope was a relaxing holiday break. As Yukoners readjust to their morning and afternoon routines, we ask that drivers in particular take steps to ensure the roads stay safe for Yukon students.
Government of Yukon strengthens engagement on Arctic security and defence
A secure North is essential for the strength and sovereignty of Canada as a whole. The Government of Yukon has established the Yukon Arctic Security Advisory Council to ensure that the Yukon’s distinct context and needs are considered in federal decision making about Arctic security.
Commissioner announces new Story Laureate of Yukon
Today, Commissioner Adeline Webber announced the Yukon’s new Story Laureate John Firth. For the next two years, John will act as a representative for the literary arts, storytelling and literacy, with a focus on the past and present condition and future prospects of the Yukon.
Statement from Minister of Education on the investigation of an individual who worked as a teacher-on-call
Updated to correct previous version.
Minister of Education Jeanie McLean issued the following statement:
“The Department of Education has become aware that criminal charges have been laid against an individual who worked as a teacher-on-call in Whitehorse-area schools.
Government of Yukon provides funding to 18 community groups supporting opportunities for youth
The Government of Yukon is supporting the important role that young people play in shaping the future of the territory, providing over $77,000 to 18 community groups through the Youth Investment Fund.
The Youth Investment Fund provides financial support to short-term projects aimed at youth under 19 years of age who may have fewer opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, as well as those who may experience discrimination.
Through the Youth Investment Fund, the Yukon government is supporting a range of artistic and recreational activities, such as:
Government of Yukon invests in 20 projects that build strong, resilient and prosperous Yukon communities
The Government of Yukon, through the Community Development Fund, has awarded $447,203 to support 20 projects that help bring economic, cultural and social benefits to Yukon communities.
