Statement from Premier Pillai on the Council of Yukon First Nations General Assembly

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement following his participation in the CYFN General Assembly:

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Yukon Chiefs and Grand Chief for the invitation to attend the Council of Yukon First Nations' (CYFN) General Assembly (GA), held in the stunning Traditional Territory of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.

“I appreciate the opportunity to meet with First Nations leadership face-to-face on the land. Coming out of our recent meeting of the Yukon Forum, this was an opportunity to continue discussions on some of the important issues facing all of our citizens, including the Yukon’s future energy needs, the Substance Use Health Emergency, and the Implementation Plan for Yukon’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ People Strategy.

“Thank you to the host Nation, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, and the CYFN, who organized an agenda of important discussions and cultural activities. I am honoured to have been able to participate and celebrate Champagne and Aishihik culture and traditions at these events.

“It is through gatherings with First Nations leadership that we are strengthening our partnerships and identifying ways we can work together more closely to implement the programs and supports that Yukoners need to thrive.

“Our government remains committed to reconciliation and seeking meaningful partnerships and collaboration with First Nations governments and I look forward to future opportunities to continue these important discussions.”