This news release was updated on May 9, 2023 to include a link to the memorandum of understanding.
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.
The agreement between premiers will help exchange best practices for creating investment-ready housing development and encourage trade and commerce in the housing sector between the Yukon and Ontario. The knowledge, skills and connections obtained through this partnership are among the several approaches taken to enhance the market housing inventory in the Yukon.
Premier Pillai spoke with Premier Ford about other priorities for the Yukon and opportunities for collaboration between jurisdictions, including critical minerals, health care, labour mobility and public safety. Premiers agreed to work together on these issues ahead of the Council of the Federation summer meeting.
While in Toronto, Premier Pillai took the opportunity to meet with business leaders to discuss investment opportunities, Arctic security, critical minerals and reconciliation.
Premier Pillai also delivered a keynote address on the economic future of the Yukon and his long-term vision for prosperity in the North at Canadian Club Toronto, a forum for leaders across the country to discuss nationwide priorities.
Advocating for the priorities of the Yukon on a national level, including reconciliation and business investment, is crucial. I am particularly pleased to have signed a memorandum of understanding with Premier Ford on housing development. Finding means to boost the housing supply in the Yukon and attracting investment capital from sources beyond the territory are ways we can move forward on goals to ensure everyone in the Yukon has a place to call home.
As jurisdictions across the country tackle housing shortages, we’re pleased to be working with Premier Pillai and our partners in the Yukon on finding real solutions. This memorandum of understanding will enable us to share our expertise, promote trade between our jurisdictions and explore opportunities to build more homes.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Diana Dryburgh
Communications, Executive Council Office
867-332-9283
diana.dryburgh@yukon.ca