October 3, 2024
Arts
Comox Valley, Bella Bella authors win BC and Yukon Book Prizes (Comox Valley Record)
Three coastal authors, including one from Comox Valley, won the BC and Yukon Book Prizes this year. Ian Kennedy received the Roderick Haig-Brown Regional Prize for his book "The Best Loved Boat: The Princess Maquinna," which recounts the history of a vital boat on Vancouver Island's west coast. Jess Housty won the Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize for "Crushed Wild Mint," a collection of poems exploring land love and ancestral wisdom. Darrel J. McLeod was posthumously awarded the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize for his debut novel "A Season in Chezgh’un," which reflects on cultural identity and personal struggles.
Community
Death at Whitehorse emergency shelter was suspected overdose, gov't says (CBC)
A suspected overdose led to the death of an individual at the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, prompting an investigation by the RCMP and Yukon coroner. Health officials are collaborating with the shelter's operator, Connective, to enhance harm reduction measures. This incident follows a recent coroner's inquest that recommended policy reviews and improved staff training at the shelter after the deaths of four Indigenous women.
Whitehorse Emergency Shelter confirms the death of one person visiting the shelter (CHON-FM)
The Whitehorse Emergency Shelter confirmed the death of an unidentified individual who was visiting a resident in the permanent housing units above the shelter. The Connective Society expressed deep sadness over the incident, emphasizing the importance of privacy and safety for residents. Emergency services were called on September 30, but no further details are available. This incident follows a coroner's inquest into the deaths of four Indigenous women at the shelter, which resulted in eight recommendations for policy and training improvements.
Culture
Dinehtl’eh vah gwitr’it t’agwah’in Nan Thok Natri’iniin’aii (Vuntut National Park) geenjik Parliament Plan gwizhit nihah veenjit tr’igiheekyhyaa nits’oo Van Tat Gwich’in gooveenjik gwiheezyaa gwitr’it gwiinzii gwahaatsyaa, nits’oo nanh t’agwijahch’uu, nanh gwiinzii k’atr’anahtii ts’at nits’oo Canadians, Yukon gwizhit nanh gahanaa’yaa, gooveenjit gwiiheezyaa
(Canada Unveils Vuntut Park Plan for Yukon Protection). (Government of Canada)
The management plan for Nan Thok Natr’iniin’aii (Vuntut National Park) was tabled in Parliament, emphasizing the protection of Indigenous rights, environmental conservation, and cultural heritage. Key strategies include maintaining healthy ecosystems, supporting traditional lifestyles, and enhancing public engagement with Vuntut Gwitchin history and culture. The plan is a collaborative effort between Parks Canada and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, aiming to ensure the park's resources are preserved for future generations.
Statement from Minister Mostyn on Library Month in the Yukon (Government of Yukon)
Minister Richard Mostyn celebrates October as National Library Month in Yukon, highlighting the essential role of libraries in cultural enrichment and community engagement. Libraries will promote their services through a 'Did You Know' campaign, featuring events like Story Time, Pathfinder role-playing games, and an Author Talk with Nadine Sander-Green. An Open House at the Energy, Mines, and Resources Library is also scheduled. Mostyn encourages Yukoners to participate in library activities and appreciate the valuable services provided by public libraries.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Canadian Islamic History Month (Government of Yukon)
Premier Ranj Pillai's statement for Canadian Islamic History Month highlights the contributions of the Muslim Canadian community to Canada's identity, particularly in the Yukon. Established in 2007, this month promotes awareness of diverse Muslim experiences, with this year's theme focusing on the contributions of Muslim scholars in medicine. The Yukon Muslim Society, with about 150 members, plays a vital role in the community, advocating for peace and inclusion. The statement calls for reflection on achievements and a commitment to combat intolerance and Islamophobia, encouraging a more inclusive and diverse Yukon.
Statement from Premier Pillai on Rosh Hashanah (Government of Yukon)
Premier Pillai's statement celebrates Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, emphasizing its significance as a time for reflection, forgiveness, and renewal. He acknowledges the Jewish community in Yukon and wishes all observers a joyful and meaningful new year, marking the beginning of the 10-day High Holy Days leading to Yom Kippur.
Economy
New agreement offers extended work permits for Yukon foreign workers (96.1 The Rush)
A new agreement between the Canadian and Yukon governments streamlines work permit issuance for the Yukon Nominee Program, allowing eligible foreign workers with expired permits to apply for a two-year Yukon-specific work permit. This initiative aims to support local businesses and provide a pathway to permanent residency for temporary residents, following concerns over a pause in the program. Applications must be submitted by October 15th.
Victoria Gold or Yukoners? Liberals and Yukon Party clash on who foots the bill for the Eagle Gold Mine (96.1 The Rush)
There is a dispute between the Yukon Liberals and the Yukon Party regarding who will pay for the cleanup of the Eagle Gold Mine, with the Liberals claiming Victoria Gold will cover the costs, while the Yukon Party argues that Yukoners will ultimately bear the financial burden. The Yukon Government has allocated $50 million in the 2024-25 Supplementary Budget for the cleanup, but previous estimates suggest the total costs could reach $150 million. Victoria Gold's financial situation raises concerns about their ability to fund the cleanup.
Education
Soft Ball fields to become new site for École Whitehorse Elementary School (CHON-FM)
The Government of Yukon has announced that the new École Whitehorse Elementary School will be built at the northwest corner of the Takhini Educational Land Reserve, replacing the 72-year-old existing school. The new facility aims to provide a modern learning environment, improve energy performance, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The site will overlap with two existing softball fields, offering advantages such as enhanced sports facilities and better traffic management while minimizing disruption to current school operations.
Environment
Broken trust: Yukoners reflect on how mine spill affects relationship with land (CBC)
A cyanide solution spill at the Eagle Gold Mine in Yukon has released 300 million litres into the environment, impacting the local community that relies on the land for their livelihood and raising concerns about trust in environmental management.
Salmon Homecoming (CBC)
The Yukon River has experienced a troubling decline in Chinook salmon populations, which are vital for the food and culture of many Yukon First Nations. This issue has persisted for years, raising concerns about the environmental impact and the future of this important species.
Finance
Supplementary Estimates address health care needs and emergency response in the Yukon, while maintaining surplus position (Government of Yukon)
The Yukon government has tabled the 2024–25 Supplementary Estimates No. 1, forecasting a $150.1 million increase in the operations and maintenance budget to address health care needs and environmental emergencies, including $44 million for the Yukon Hospital Corporation, $50 million for the Eagle Gold Mine response, and $22 million for wildfire and flood emergencies. Despite challenges, the government maintains a $75.4 million surplus, with a focus on fiscal responsibility and quality health care delivery. The update also highlights a favorable economic outlook despite a decrease in GDP due to mine operations suspension, with strong demand for workers and robust consumer spending.
Government
4 things to watch as the Yukon Legislative Assembly resumes (CBC)
As the Yukon Legislative Assembly resumes, key issues include the stability of the Liberal government amid tensions with the NDP, the fallout from a tailings spill at the Eagle gold mine, rising crime rates in downtown Whitehorse, and ongoing healthcare challenges. The NDP's support for the budget is uncertain, and there are calls for new minerals legislation. Crime and safety in the capital remain pressing concerns, with discussions on how to address them, while the healthcare system faces significant criticism and calls for reform.
Here who's running for Whitehorse city council (CBC)
The upcoming Whitehorse municipal election features significant changes, with current mayor Laura Cabott not seeking re-election and only one incumbent, Dan Boyd, running for council again. Seventeen new candidates are competing for six council seats, each outlining their priorities such as safety, infrastructure, housing, and community engagement. Candidates include Jean-Sébastien Blais, Dan Boyd, and Jenny Hamilton, among others, each bringing diverse backgrounds and visions for the city's future.
Q+A | Outgoing Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabott looks back on an eventful term (CBC)
Outgoing Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabott reflects on her three-year term, highlighting achievements in transit improvements and crisis management, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in housing. She emphasizes the need for the incoming council to prioritize services amid reduced federal funding and to maintain strong intergovernmental relationships. Cabott decides not to run for re-election, citing a desire for personal projects and the commitment required for another term.
Liard First Nation and Yukon government renew political protocol agreement (Yukon News)
The Liard First Nation and Yukon government have renewed a political protocol agreement to support self-determination and enhance their government-to-government relationship. Signed by Chief Stephen Charlie and Premier Ranj Pillai, the agreement aims to improve collaboration on shared priorities such as natural resource management, economic development, and land planning. Regular high-level discussions will facilitate transparency and actionable plans, while ensuring that the agreement does not affect the First Nation's Aboriginal rights or legal negotiations.
Health
RSV, COVID-19 and Flu vaccines now available for fall 2024 in the Yukon (Government of Yukon)
Starting October 1, 2024, the Government of Yukon will offer RSV, COVID-19, and flu vaccines for high-risk individuals, with priority for those 75+ and 60+ in long-term care for the first two weeks. New RSV treatments include Beyfortus for infants and a one-time vaccine for adults 75+. Vaccination appointments can be booked online, and while walk-ins are accepted, booking is recommended. Important safety information includes a required four-week gap between RSV and other vaccines, though COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be administered simultaneously.
Canada invests $2.5M to enhance French-language health services in Yukon (Yukon News)
The Government of Canada is investing $2.5 million to enhance French-language health services in Yukon over five years. The project aims to improve data collection on patients' language preferences, develop digital tools for better access to services, and assign bilingual staff. This initiative is part of a broader national action plan for official languages, with contributions from various federal and Yukon government entities. It addresses challenges faced by Francophone communities outside Quebec and is supported by Health Canada's Official Languages Health Program.
Mining
Bonanza gold and silver for Yukon Metals (North of 60 Mining News)
Yukon Metals Corp. reported significant mineralization potential at its Star River Project, with recent samples showing up to 85 g/t gold and 1,616 g/t silver. Following the acquisition of an 18,000-hectare portfolio, the company initiated exploration activities, confirming high-grade silver targets and discovering new mineralized areas. Assays revealed bonanza-grade silver and gold across multiple zones, indicating a promising exploration outlook for the property.
