Yukon News Releases
Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on the two-year anniversary of the Supervised Consumption Site
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“September 29, 2023, marked the second anniversary of the Supervised Consumption Site (SCS), a beacon of hope and safety in Whitehorse. It stands as a testament to our government's commitment to addressing problematic substance use through a public health approach grounded in empathy, understanding and harm reduction initiatives.
The Government of Yukon releases a new edition of the Pathways magazine
The Government of Yukon has released the second edition of the Pathways magazine, which shares stories of collaboration, partnership and reconciliation.
This issue reflects on collaborative work with First Nations governments and organizations to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
The magazine features stories on the work of the Yukon Residential Schools and Missing Children Project, the evolution of the Yukon’s education system, child welfare, justice, sport and recreation and much more.
Haeckel Hill wind turbine project reaches milestone towards a strong, sustainable Yukon
The shift to clean, sustainable energy production in the Yukon has taken another step forward with the unveiling of four new wind turbines on Haeckel Hill.
Today, Minister responsible for Yukon Development Corporation John Streicker, Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn and Kwanlin Dün First Nation Chief Sean Smith announced the completion of the Haeckel Hill Wind Project.
Government of Yukon encourages all Yukoners to celebrate National Library Month
October is National Library Month and Yukon Public Libraries is joining libraries across the country in celebrating and raising awareness of the valuable role of libraries.
Libraries provide more than just books. Libraries promote cultural awareness, strengthen community, provide educational programs and support expression.
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on Small Business Month
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“October is Small Business Month, which includes Small Business Week from October 15 to 21. This represents a national opportunity to recognize the achievements of Canadian entrepreneurs and celebrate the many contributions of small businesses to the economy and to our communities.
“Here in the Yukon, the positive impacts of our small business community cannot be overstated. It is especially important that we take this time to recognize their hard work.
Statement from Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn has issued the following statement:
“On Friday, September 29, 2023, the Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon, along with Watson Lake Mayor Christopher Irvin, announced funding to strengthen the municipal water system, sewers and roads.
“I am pleased that Deputy Premier Jeanie McLean could be in Watson Lake on my behalf to celebrate this announcement.
Celebrating a great first season at the Pelly Crossing pool
As August came to an end, so did a great first season at the new Pelly Crossing seasonal community pool. This infrastructure project, which took place following investments from the Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada, consisted of designing and constructing a new pool to replace the existing covered below-ground facility, which was built in 1984 and was at the end of its serviceable life.
Rugged Apprentices complete five community projects leaving the Yukon with improved tourism infrastructure and attractions
From September 12 to 15, 49 volunteers from across Canada were in the Yukon to work on a tourism-related community project in one of five Yukon communities as part of the Government of Yukon’s Rugged Apprentices program. Volunteers received a unique tourism experience, while also giving back to the Yukon by helping to improve visitor infrastructure and attractions in the territory.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Sukkot
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“As we mark the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, I extend my warmest wishes to all Yukoners celebrating the occasion over the next seven days. Sukkot holds profound significance for the Jewish community and resonates with our diverse and inclusive territory.
“The symbolism of the sukkah, a temporary structure open to the elements, calls attention to the importance of shelter and security.
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“Tomorrow, on September 30th, we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, remembering the children who never returned home from residential schools, and the Survivors of those institutions and their communities who are impacted by this tragic history to this day. This is an opportunity to honour the Survivors of residential schools and grieve for the children who never returned home. 2023 marks the first time we will observe this day as a statutory holiday in the Yukon.
The Government of Yukon urges Yukoners to test their smoke alarms
The Yukon is joining jurisdictions across Canada to mark the territory’s first Test Your Smoke Alarm Day.
As part of Test Your Smoke Alarm Day, all Yukoners are encouraged to learn more about smoke alarms, fire safety and home fire escape planning. Learning about fire safety can save lives.
Statement from the Yukon’s Chief Medical Officer of Health on the rise of syphilis in the Yukon
“In February, Yukoners were alerted to the concerning increase in syphilis cases in the territory. Last year, the rate of syphilis in the Yukon continued to escalate, surpassing any recorded rate in the territory since at least 1979.
Leaders meet for Yukon Forum in Dawson
This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon, the Council of Yukon First Nations and Yukon First Nations governments.
Premier Ranj Pillai, Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston, members of the Yukon government Cabinet and Yukon First Nations Chiefs met over two days at Äłät Nëhëjël (Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Community Hall) in Dawson for the Yukon Forum.
Statement from Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee regarding the death of RCMP Constable Rick O’Brien
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the death of Constable Rick O’Brien, who served as an officer of the Ridge Meadows RCMP in British Columbia.
“Constable O’Brien was a well-respected member of the RCMP, whose passing left a profound impact on his colleagues and his community.
“This loss is heightened due to our close relationship with British Columbia and the numerous family, work and community connections that we share between our jurisdictions.
The Government of Yukon and Ross River Dena Council partner to create new staff housing
The Government of Yukon, through Yukon Housing Corporation, has partnered with Ross River Dena Council to install a three-unit trailer at 206 Quartzite Street in the community of Ross River. The units, each equipped with a full kitchen, bathroom with shower and combined living and bedroom area, will provide housing for Ross River Dena Council staff, helping the community to better respond to its ongoing State of Emergency.
Statement from Minister John Streicker on World Tourism Day
Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker has issued the following statement:
“Since 1980, World Tourism Day has been held every September 27 in recognition of the impact the tourism sector has around the globe.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Mawlid
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“Today, many Muslims around the world will mark Mawlid, the anniversary of the birth of their holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the founder of Islam and proclaimer of the Quran.
“Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born in the third month of the Islamic calendar, Rabi' al-Awwal, in the year 570 CE. He began preaching after being visited by the angel Gabriel and went on to lead his followers to Medina, uniting many tribes under his leadership and march on the city of Mecca.
Statement from Premier Pillai on meeting with Alaska Governor Dunleavy
Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:
“Earlier today, I had the pleasure of meeting virtually with Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy to discuss the Yukon’s relationship with our neighbours to the west and areas where our governments can continue to collaborate.
Yukon wildfire officials presenting at Scandinavian conference
The Government of Yukon’s Wildland Fire Management Branch is sending two wildfire officials to Finland, to participate in a Scandinavian emergency services conference.
The Yukon representatives will be presenting on wildfire management in the Yukon to strengthen the perspectives of attendees on wildfire management in northern climates. Topics will include the Yukon’s expertise in wildland fire incident management, use of prescribed fire and cultural fire, tactical and strategic fire use to fight wildfires, wildfire impacts and partnerships with Yukon First Nations.
Centre de Santé Constellation Health Centre moves into permanent location
The Centre de Santé Constellation Health Centre has moved from its temporary location to its permanent space at 9010 Quartz Road in Whitehorse. The new space will enhance the clinic’s ability to offer high-quality, primary health care to Yukoners in both English and French.
The team of interdisciplinary health professionals at Centre de Santé Constellation Health Centre currently serves 816 Yukoners and has been open since November 1, 2022.
