September 4, 2024

Business

Yukon samples up to 14.1 g/t Au, 4,260 ppm Cu at Birch (Stock Watch)

Yukon Metals Corp. reported positive exploration results from its Birch project, with gold assays up to 14.1 g/t and copper up to 4,260 ppm from surface sampling. The project, located northeast of Burwash Landing, covers 2,285 hectares and shows a significant mineralized system over a 1,400-meter anomaly. The company plans to further investigate the results using geophysical methods. Yukon Metals aims to enhance shareholder value while fostering sustainable growth in local communities.

Education

Community committees allow Yukon First Nations to have more say over schools (Philippine Canadian Inquirer)

The First Nation School Board in Yukon is empowering local First Nations by establishing community committees that allow for greater involvement in school governance. These committees, appointed by local governments, have legal authority under the Education Act and aim to ensure that First Nations' voices are heard in educational decisions. The committees facilitate a connection between the community and the school, allowing for culturally relevant decisions, such as adjusting the school calendar to honor community traditions.

Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin, Yukon gov’t pledge culturally inclusive education in Dawson City (Eye on the Arctic)

The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation and the Yukon government have signed a milestone agreement to create a more inclusive education system in Dawson City that reflects the culture and values of the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin people. The agreement focuses on improving education outcomes, integrating Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin culture and language, and sharing decision-making responsibilities. This collaboration builds on a previous agreement from 2013 and aims to enhance education programs in the traditional territory.

Education on Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in territory now co-governed by First Nation, Yukon (Yukon News)

The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government and the Yukon government have signed a historic agreement to co-govern education on Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in territory, aiming to create an education system that reflects the community's culture and values. The agreement, which formalizes shared decision-making and responsibilities, seeks to improve educational outcomes and foster a sense of belonging among Indigenous students, addressing historical shortcomings in the education system. The Yukon government remains the primary funder, while an oversight committee will ensure resources are allocated effectively.

Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin, Yukon gov't commit to culturally-inclusive education system in Dawson City (CBC)

The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation and the Yukon government have signed a milestone agreement to create a culturally-inclusive education system in Dawson City. This partnership aims to improve educational outcomes, integrate Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin culture, history, and language into programs, and ensure shared decision-making. The agreement follows a commitment made in 2013 to co-govern education in the traditional territory, reflecting the community's values and needs.

Environment

Independent review of 'catastrophic' mine failure in Yukon begins (Yukon News)

An independent review has begun to investigate the June 24 heap leach failure at Victoria Gold’s Eagle Gold Mine in Yukon, which has significant environmental and health impacts. The review aims to determine the causes of the cyanide-laden landslide by examining the facility's design and operation. It is expected to take six to eight months, with findings to inform future mining practices and remediation efforts. Over $58 million in miners' liens have been filed against Victoria Gold, and First Nations are demanding a suspension of mining activities until the situation is addressed. The review will be funded by the company's receivership.

Yukon starts probe into Eagle mine disaster (The Northern Miner)

The Yukon government has initiated an independent review of the heap leach pad accident at Victoria Gold's Eagle mine, which occurred in June and resulted in significant environmental impacts. A three-member expert panel will investigate the design, construction, and operation of the facility, with results expected in six to eight months. The First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun has expressed concerns about being excluded from the process and is advocating for a public inquiry. The review aims to identify causes of the failure and inform future mining practices in the region.

Health

Yukon government says moving palliative care residents was about 'room optimization' (CBC)

The Yukon government has moved palliative care residents to a new unit at Whistle Bend Place for "room optimization," facing criticism from families and opposition politicians who argue the decision was rushed and inadequate for end-of-life care. Concerns have been raised about the new unit's suitability, as it lacks specific features for palliative care, although government officials maintain it is well-equipped. The future of this arrangement remains uncertain, depending on room needs.

Justice

Whitehorse RCMP lay charges against driver who struck pedestrian (Yukon News)

Whitehorse RCMP have charged a 51-year-old driver with criminal negligence and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle after a collision that injured a pedestrian on February 13. The driver faces additional charges under the Yukon Motor Vehicle Act for speeding and lack of care. Court appearances are scheduled for August 28 and September 11.

Sports

Team Yukon brings home 58 medals from Canada 55+ Games (96.1 The Rush)

Team Yukon achieved remarkable success at the Canada 55+ Games, bringing home 58 medals, with swimmers earning 28 medals and track and field athletes securing 22. Notable performances included Nesta Leduc, 91, winning gold and three silvers in swimming, and Marcella Abrams excelling in track events. Other sports also saw medal wins, but teams in curling, golf, hockey, and slo-pitch did not podium. The next games are scheduled for 2026 in Manitoba.

Government of Yukon welcomes Team Yukon 55+ home (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon welcomes Team Yukon back from the 2024 Canada 55+ Games in Quebec City, where they achieved a record 58 medals. The Yukon government supported the event with a $75,000 grant to the ElderActive Recreation Association. The Games promote national-level competition and community engagement, with the next event scheduled for Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Yukon paralympian Jessica Frotten named to sports hall of fame in Saskatchewan (CBC)

Yukon paralympian Jessica Frotten has been inducted into the Regina Sports Hall of Fame in Saskatchewan, recognizing her exceptional achievements in wheelchair racing and her advocacy for para athletics. Since starting her athletic career over a decade ago after a spinal cord injury, she has won numerous medals, including six gold at national competitions. Frotten expresses pride in her Yukoner roots while acknowledging the significance of her journey in Saskatchewan, where she began her athletic development.