The Elijah Smith Elementary School in Whitehorse is home to a new biomass heating system, building on the Government of Yukon's commitment to support a strong and sustainable future for generations to come.

Biomass is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Heat is created by burning organic matter like wood. This system will reduce the school's reliance on propane and lower its greenhouse emissions by approximately 180 tonnes annually.

The Government of Yukon recognizes the vital role of youth in shaping the future of the territory. To strengthen this role, 12 community groups from across the Yukon received over $59,000 through the Youth Investment Fund (YIF) for a range of artistic and recreational activities, such as therapeutic horseback riding, piano lessons, a rugby club and a theatrical presentation.

Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“Today marks 150 years since Parliament established the North-West Mounted Police, which would eventually become the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

This is joint news release between the governments of Yukon, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation and Canada. 

The governments of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, Canada and the Yukon are pleased to announce the opening of the first assisted-living complex for Elders in Old Crow. An opening ceremony was held on May 19 in the community. This new facility means that Elders no longer have to move south to larger cities and away from their family supports to access the assisted-living care they need.

Recognizing and respectfully addressing power imbalances inherent to the health and social care system is a priority for the Government of Yukon. The Department of Health and Social Services has established a cultural safety team that will work to implement a more comprehensive, coordinated approach to cultural safety in the Yukon’s health and social system. This work will be foundational to implementing key commitments from the Putting People First report and approaches to care that will improve health outcomes for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.

Today, the Honourable Angélique Bernard, Commissioner of Yukon, awarded the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal to four Yukon Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team members.

This national award recognizes the good conduct, industry and efficiency of professionals who have provided pre-hospital emergency medical services to the public in an exemplary manner for at least 20 years. This year’s recipients are:

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“For over 175 years, Canadians have celebrated this day as the birthday of our head of state, beginning with Her Imperial Majesty Queen Victoria. On Victoria Day, we reflect on the Crown’s contributions to Canada’s development and celebrate Canadian heritage and culture.

“Earlier this month, we watched the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and continue the Victoria Day tradition by celebrating our newest monarch on this day.  

The Government of Yukon congratulates the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) on the site blessing and groundbreaking ceremony for the Family Preservation Wellness Centre.

The ceremony took place on May 17, 2023 at 10 Eldorado Drive in Whistle Bend. The future site of the Family Preservation Wellness Centre is close to playgrounds, walking trails and the new Whistle Bend School. The Centre will have 15 apartments (32 beds) divided by high and lower barrier areas to safely meet the needs of women with children and women who require more support.

The Yukon government has begun formal negotiations with the federal government to finalize its bilateral funding agreement and implementation plan for the territory under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.

Provincial, territorial and federal governments, including the Government of Yukon, endorsed the 10-year National Action Plan in November 2022. This historic national plan builds on approaches and strategies to prevent and address gender-based violence with the goal of supporting victims, survivors and their families no matter where they live in Canada.

Premier of the Yukon Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Northwest Territories Caroline Cochrane and Premier of Nunavut P.J. Akeeagok met for the annual Northern Premiers’ Forum, held this year in Inuvik, Northwest Territories on May 16 and 17.

The three leaders focused on shared priorities, reflecting on the state of the North and discussing issues including Arctic security, infrastructure, critical minerals, housing, labour markets, education and climate change.