Yukon government working to advance Yukoners' priorities this summer

Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:

“Over the spring and summer, our government worked hard on behalf of Yukoners, here at home as well as in other Canadian jurisdictions, always keeping Yukoners at the heart of every meeting and discussion.

“In April, I had the opportunity to attend the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage, where we joined policymakers, diplomats, Indigenous leaders and experts to discuss key Alaska-Yukon priorities, such as economic development, infrastructure, energy and environmental stewardship.

“A month later, I participated in the Northern Premiers' Forum in Mittimatalik, Nunavut, where we focused on Arctic security, disaster preparedness, housing and the health and wellbeing of northerners. While passing through Iqaluit, we also met with federal ministers to advocate for investment in northern communities and received an important Arctic security briefing.

“In June, I was honoured to attend the 80th anniversary commemoration of D-Day in France, alongside the Prime Minister and other Canadian leaders. Our government proudly contributed $25,000 to the Juno Beach Capital Campaign, helping to ensure that future generations of Yukoners and Canadians continue to understand the significance of those sacrifices.

“This summer, we were pleased to host the Western Premiers’ Conference, where northern and western leaders discussed shared priorities, including sustainable economic growth, energy and public safety, all aimed at improving the quality of life for our people.

“In July, I also represented Yukon at the Council of the Federation meeting in Halifax, where we addressed the pressing issues of affordable housing, the cost of living, Arctic sovereignty and strategies for recruiting health professionals to the territory.

“I returned to Ottawa in September for productive discussions with the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services, where we focused on ensuring that Yukoners and small businesses receive fair compensation for service disruptions over the summer.

“Throughout the summer, we continued important conversations with federal Ministers and international diplomats on issues that matter to Yukoners.

“Back here at home, our government remains committed to partnership with First Nations and advancing reconciliation. I had the privilege of meeting with Yukon First Nations leaders throughout the summer, including at both the Council of Yukon First Nations General Assembly and the Yukon Forum to address our shared priorities.

“Significant milestones included signing a government-to-government accord with Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation and a political protocol with Liard First Nation, further strengthening our relationships and advancing reconciliation.

“We also pulled out all the stops to respond to our flood and fire season, responding to natural disasters and telecommunications issues.

“I was also so pleased that because of the hard work of our Health and Social Services Minister and department on the Health Human Resources Strategy, we saw minimal service reductions in community health centres – a significant improvement compared to last summer.

“I’m also working hard to push telecoms companies to treat Yukoners with respect, especially in the face of massive service outages over the summer. Our government will be working with the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-Television Services to advocate for fairness and service improvements.

“These are just a few highlights of the work we are doing every day to improve the lives of Yukoners. We will continue to engage with our regional, federal and international partners to build relationships that pave the way for a strong and thriving Yukon for years to come.”