Yukon News Releases
Updated: 4 hours 25 min ago
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.
Three Yukoners to receive the Order of Yukon
Commissioner of Yukon Adeline Webber, in her capacity as Chancellor of the Order of Yukon, will present the Order of Yukon to three Yukoners on January 13.
The 2023 inductees have each exhibited remarkable achievements in their pursuits and have made outstanding contributions to the social, arts, cultural or economic wellbeing of the Yukon and its residents.
Tombstone Territorial Park backcountry campsites available for reservation starting March 6
In 2024, backcountry campsite reservations for Grizzly Lake, Divide Lake and Talus Lake campgrounds in Tombstone Territorial Park will be available starting March 6 at 9 am Yukon Standard Time.
As committed in the Yukon Parks Strategy, the Government of Yukon will be launching a new campground reservation service pilot project in 2024. Tombstone Territorial Park backcountry reservations will be hosted on this new platform for 2024. The revised booking date for 2024 backcountry camping reservations provides additional time to transfer to the new system.
Statement from Premier Pillai on New Year 2024
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:
“The past year brought with it significant milestones for the Yukon, commemorating 50 years of Together Today for our Children Tomorrow, marking 125 years since joining Confederation and celebrating the anniversaries of many Self-Government Agreements with Yukon First Nations. These milestones are not only markers on a timeline; they represent the progress, unity and resilience that define us as Yukoners.
The Government of Yukon shares progress updates on Auditor General of Canada's 2022 housing recommendations
The Government of Yukon is making progress on the actions put forward in its work plan to address the 2022 recommendations made by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada’s report on the state of housing for vulnerable Yukoners.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Christmas
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:
“The Christmas season means different things to different people, but one thing is universal: this season is one of reflection, generosity and care for friends, neighbours and loved ones.
“During this season of kindness, let's pause to consider the past year and appreciate the memories, moments and connections that have contributed to our lives. As we reflect, let's also consider our hopes of peace for the future.
The Government of Yukon releases Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan
To ensure that downtown Whitehorse remains a welcoming place where Yukoners feel safe and supported and proud to call it home, the Government of Yukon has released the Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan. This living document was developed in collaboration with community partners and summarizes the actions taken to date and future actions to help shape a safe, supportive and thriving downtown Whitehorse.
Government of Yukon announces new climate change actions, shares progress on Our Clean Future strategy
The Government of Yukon is committed to fighting climate change and is introducing 42 new actions to its climate strategy, Our Clean Future: A Yukon strategy for climate change, energy and a green economy.
These new actions will be incorporated into the Our Clean Future strategy and implemented by 2030. They focus on seven key areas of climate action, including transportation, homes and buildings, energy, people and the environment, communities, innovation and leadership.
Overall, they contribute to the Yukon government’s four key Our Clean Future goals:
Yukon Fire Marshal concludes Ibex Valley fire investigation
The Yukon Fire Marshal’s Office has concluded the investigation into the Takhini Bridge XY-019 wildfire, concluding that the wildfire was human-caused and accidental.
The XY-019 wildfire burned near the Ibex Valley neighbourhood, prompting an evacuation alert for most residents from July 8 to July 17. Wildfire crews worked to contain the fire and reduce the threat to local residents and properties. The wildfire was eventually contained without injury or property damage.
Holiday statement from the Yukon’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ranade
"Happy holidays to one and all. As the festive season brings us together and respiratory illnesses are circulating in the territory, it is important to practise everything we have learned to reduce the spread of viruses and illnesses.
“Here are my four top tips to help stop the spread:
Update from Premier Pillai and Minister McPhee on downtown Whitehorse community safety
Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee have issued the following statement:
“The Government of Yukon is continuing to work with downtown Whitehorse community partners, businesses and residents to ensure that our capital city remains a welcoming place where all Yukoners and visitors feel safe and have access to the supports and services they need.
New walk-in medical clinic to open in Whitehorse
This news release has been edited to update the information on how to book an appointment.
The Government of Yukon continues to work towards the goal of ensuring that all Yukoners have access to the health care and supportive services they need, when they need them. The Government of Yukon is opening a new walk-in medical clinic in Whitehorse to provide accessible and essential non-urgent health care services.
Electoral District Boundaries Commission members appointed
The Government of Yukon has announced the selected members who will participate in the upcoming Electoral District Boundaries Commission. This commission is required by the Elections Act.
The members are:
Government of Yukon working with public utilities to ensure Yukon grid remains reliable as intermittent renewables increase
The Government of Yukon is committed to sustainable and effective energy solutions that meet the increasing needs of the territory.
Over the years, Yukoners have shown a strong interest in addressing the climate crisis by embracing renewable energy technologies. The high interest and rapid uptake in the Yukon government’s renewable energy programs has achieved its goal of adding renewable electricity onto the main electrical grid and in diesel-dependent communities seven years ahead of schedule.
Carbon rebate remote supplement to increase for Yukoners outside Whitehorse
Starting in July 2024, the remote supplement for Yukoners living outside Whitehorse will double as part of the territory’s carbon rebate program. This means more money will come back to Yukoners in communities who may have higher travel costs. The remote supplement will be 20 per cent in addition to the regular carbon rebate payment, an increase from the current 10 per cent.
This new rebate amount will apply automatically to anyone who reports their primary address as outside of Whitehorse on their tax return.
