September 20, 2024

Arts

New venue for CHON-FM's 40th anniversary concert announced (CHON-FM)

CHON-FM's 40th anniversary concert has been moved from Shipyard Park to Rotary Peace Park due to unforeseen circumstances. Scheduled for September 21st, the event will feature performances by C-Weed Band and Boogey the Beat, along with Yukon talents. The celebration will honor the late founder George Henry and includes food trucks and artisan crafts. Tickets are available on eventbrite.com.

Business

Victoria Gold owes millions to First Nation of Na-Cho Nyӓk Dun businesses, report says (CBC)

Victoria Gold Corp owes at least $9.3 million to businesses owned by the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyӓk Dun following a heap leach failure at its Eagle mine. The financial impact is still largely unknown, with concerns about long-term burdens on taxpayers. Some businesses, like Northern Cascades, opted not to file miner's liens due to potential costs, while others are owed significant amounts in unsecured credit. The Na-Cho Nyӓk Dun Development Corporation is affected but not at risk of failure, as it shifts investments away from mining.

7M Oz Gold Resource: Banyan's Yukon Powerhouse | Banyan Gold Corp with Tara Christie (The Deep Dive)

Tara Christie, CEO of Banyan Gold Corp, discusses the company's 7 million ounce gold resource in the Yukon, highlighting strategic advantages such as existing infrastructure and ongoing exploration. She addresses challenges in the mining sector while noting positive government and First Nations support. Banyan's strong financial position and unique project aspects suggest it may be undervalued in the market. Additionally, PharmaDrug is preparing for a phase 1 clinical trial for its PD-001 formulation in Australia, aiming to improve the drug's bioavailability for treating viral infectious diseases.

Community

Family of man missing after vehicle went into Yukon River asks for help with search (CBC)

The family of Knate Osteno, an Arizona man missing after his truck slid into the Yukon River, is seeking help from the community for search efforts. Osteno's family remains hopeful he may have escaped the vehicle and is lost in the woods. A specialized RCMP dive team is searching underwater, while his friend, who was driving, managed to escape and is receiving medical treatment. The family expresses gratitude for community support and urges anyone with resources to assist in the search.

Statement from Minister McLean and Minister McPhee on supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ Yukoners (Government of Yukon)

Ministers Jeanie McLean and Tracy-Anne McPhee reaffirmed the Yukon government's support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing the importance of safety, love, and acceptance for all children, regardless of gender identity. They highlighted ongoing efforts to improve inclusion through the LGBTQ2S+ Inclusion Action Plan and the implementation of the SOGI Policy in schools, ensuring welcoming environments for students. The statement coincides with the upcoming Gender Equality Week, promoting solidarity and recognition of fundamental human rights for all Yukoners.

More outstanding Yukoners recognized with Yukon 125 medals (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon has awarded 25 commemorative Yukon 125 medals to exceptional Yukoners for their contributions to the community, celebrating leadership and reconciliation. Recipients come from various sectors, including public service, education, and the arts, and the medals feature artwork by Violet Gatensby. Each week in September, additional recipients will be announced, highlighting their significant impacts on the territory.

Education

Work on Kêts’ádań Kų̀ in Burwash Landing moves forward as construction contract is awarded (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon has awarded a $26.9 million construction contract to GenMec ACL Inc. for the new Kêts’ádań Kų̀ school in Burwash Landing, which will replace the aging Kluane Lake School. The project, funded by both the Canadian and Yukon governments, aims to create a modern learning environment and community gathering space, reflecting a commitment to enhance economic outcomes for Yukon First Nations. The school is expected to open in fall 2026, marking a significant step towards fulfilling the community's long-standing request for educational infrastructure.

Environment

Salmon populations in decline across B.C. and Yukon: report (CBC News)

A report by the Pacific Salmon Foundation reveals that Pacific salmon populations are declining across B.C. and Yukon, with over 70% of species below their long-term averages. Chum salmon and steelhead are particularly affected, especially in northern regions. Contributing factors include climate change, natural disasters, and harvest impacts. However, there are signs of recovery for coho salmon in the Fraser region, attributed to significant rebuilding efforts. Collaboration among Indigenous communities and various stakeholders is crucial for supporting salmon resilience amid changing climate conditions.

Yukon gov't to give another update on Victoria Gold mine failure (CBC)

The Yukon government will hold a media briefing regarding the failure of the heap leach facility at Victoria Gold's Eagle mine. Officials will address criticisms from a former company engineer about the government's response and transparency, while also emphasizing their commitment to resolving the situation.

Government of Yukon provides update on heap leach failure at Victoria Gold’s Eagle Gold Mine (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon is actively addressing the heap leach failure at Victoria Gold’s Eagle Gold Mine, focusing on environmental protection and safety measures. Efforts include constructing a safety berm, increasing water storage capacity, and ongoing water monitoring, which has shown low cyanide levels in Haggart Creek. New groundwater wells have been installed, revealing high cyanide levels near the failure site, prompting further investigation into groundwater flow and treatment plans. Fish monitoring is also in place to protect local fish populations, with no new die-offs reported.

Groundwater testing shows 'high levels' of cyanide near mine disaster: Yukon (Toronto Star)

Groundwater testing near the Eagle Gold mine in Yukon has revealed high levels of cyanide, particularly in wells closest to a recent mine disaster. The Yukon government is installing new groundwater wells and working on water treatment plans. Although testing in Haggart Creek showed cyanide levels below harmful guidelines for aquatic life, barriers are in place to protect local fish populations. The mine owner, Victoria Gold, is in receivership, and an independent review of the incident is ongoing.

New study warns permafrost thaw along Yukon River could release high levels of mercury (KYUK)

A new study warns that thawing permafrost along the Yukon River could release high levels of mercury, which has accumulated in Arctic soils due to human activities. While current mercury levels in river water are not elevated, continued thawing could pose a significant threat to communities in northern and western Alaska, as released mercury may convert to toxic methylmercury, affecting human health. Researchers emphasize the importance of ongoing studies to monitor this environmental issue.

Researchers using AI models say the North is susceptible to severe droughts in decades ahead (CBC)

A new study predicts that Canada's North may experience some of the most severe drought conditions in the country over the coming decades, using AI and historical data to identify vulnerable regions. Researchers found that even in the best-case scenarios, rising temperatures will significantly outpace any increases in precipitation, leading to water scarcity. The study highlights potential temperature increases in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, with implications for ecosystems and First Nations treaty rights. Experts emphasize the need for more comprehensive data, including hydrological records, to better understand drought conditions.

Government

Boundary commission pitches 21 electoral districts for the Yukon (Yukon News)

The Yukon Electoral District Boundaries Commission proposes 21 electoral districts, increasing from 19, after feedback on earlier plans. Notably, the merger of the Vuntut Gwitchin and Klondike ridings has been scrapped to ensure representation for Old Crow. Changes include dividing the Mount Lorne-Southern Lakes district and minor adjustments in Whitehorse. The deadline for public submissions is September 27, with a final report due by October 9.

Q+A | What would ranked ballots mean for Yukon elections? A politics professor weighs in (CBC)

Laura Stephenson, a political science professor, discusses the implications of potentially switching Yukon elections to a ranked ballot system, as recommended by a citizens' assembly. Ranked ballots allow voters to rank candidates, promoting consensus candidates but requiring voter education to avoid confusion. The experience in London, Ontario, showed that while the system worked smoothly, it didn't significantly change electoral outcomes or political behavior immediately. Effective communication about the new voting process is crucial to ensure voter participation and understanding.

Senior leadership appointments in the Government of Yukon public service (Government of Yukon)

Premier Ranj Pillai has appointed Matt King as Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services and Damien Burns as acting Deputy Minister of Community Services, effective September 20, 2024. King has extensive leadership experience in the Yukon government, while Burns has 20 years of public service experience. Both are expected to excel in their new roles, with appreciation extended to outgoing officials for their service.

Infrastructure

Canada Announces Significant Funding to Unlock More Critical Minerals Development in Northern British Columbia and the Yukon (Government of Canada)

Canada is investing up to $60 million to enhance critical minerals infrastructure in Northern British Columbia and the Yukon, aiming to support the transition to a low-carbon economy. The funding will facilitate the construction of an access road for the Galore Creek copper mine and a high-voltage transmission line connecting the Yukon to the North American grid, both essential for increasing Canada's critical mineral production and creating jobs.

Work to connect Yukon to main North American power grid underway: MP Hanley (Yukon News)

The Yukon is set to connect to the North American power grid with a $40 million federal investment, addressing energy capacity issues and enabling the region to support mining projects and export surplus energy. This multi-year project aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy reliability, crucial for economic growth and environmental goals. Consultation with Indigenous communities will begin in this phase, and while the timeline and total costs are still being defined, the project is a top priority for the Yukon government.

Yukon premier escalates telecom concerns to national complaint body (Yukon News)

Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai is escalating telecommunications issues to the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services, seeking compensation for Yukoners affected by poor service. Following complaints, Bell Canada has offered compensation, and Pillai urges TELUS and Rogers to do the same. TELUS acknowledges the dissatisfaction and invites feedback from Yukon residents, offering credits for device purchases. The Yukon government finds TELUS's response inadequate, emphasizing the critical nature of reliable service for emergency and business communications. The national complaint body is monitoring the situation and collaborating with the Yukon government to facilitate additional compensation for residents.

Justice

Yukon public interest watchdog takes gov't to court after refusal to share text messages (CBC)

The Yukon Public Interest Disclosure Commissioner has filed a petition against the territorial government for refusing to provide employee text messages related to a wrongdoing investigation. The government claims the commissioner seeks unrestricted power, while the commissioner argues that the government's non-compliance has hindered multiple investigations. The petition requests a court order to compel the release of the texts and asserts that the PIDC should determine the relevance of records independently. The government opposes this, stating that such authority should not rest solely with the commissioner or ombudsman. The case is pending in court.

Alberta watchdog finds Whitehorse RCMP justified in fatal shooting of former Air North employee (CBC)

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) concluded that the Whitehorse RCMP's fatal shooting of a man threatening Air North employees in 2022 was justified. The investigation revealed the man, a former employee, brandished a rifle and threatened individuals before approaching police, who ordered him to drop the weapon. He was shot after refusing to comply, and ASIRT deemed the police response proportionate and reasonable given the circumstances.

RCMP officer cleared in 2022 fatal shooting at Whitehorse airport (96.1 The Rush)

A Yukon RCMP officer has been cleared of wrongdoing in a 2022 fatal shooting at Whitehorse airport, as concluded by the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT). The report found the officer acted properly after the armed man approached despite warnings, and the use of lethal force was deemed necessary to protect himself and others. No charges will be filed against the officer, and ASIRT emphasized the importance of de-escalation techniques in such incidents.

RCMP officer cleared in 2022 shooting at Whitehorse airport hangar (Yukon News)

The Yukon police watchdog concluded that an RCMP officer acted "proportionate, necessary, and reasonable" in shooting a man threatening people with a gun at the Whitehorse airport hangar on November 24, 2022. The investigation revealed the man had attempted to fire the weapon multiple times before confronting civilians and ultimately advancing towards the officers, who ordered him to drop the weapon. The officer fired two rounds when the man was within 10 meters, leading to his death from injuries sustained.

Yukon First Nations appeal BMC's Kudz Ze Kayah project in court (The Northern Miner)

Indigenous groups, specifically the Kaska Nation, are appealing the approval of BMC Minerals' Kudz Ze Kayah mining project in Yukon, claiming inadequate consultation. A recent court hearing challenged a previous ruling favoring the mine, focusing on economic feasibility and consultation processes. Kaska representatives argue that the consultation was overly restricted, while government lawyers maintain that the consultation met legal requirements. BMC continues to pursue necessary permits after receiving re-approval under new conditions.