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Yukon Legislative Assembly
Whitehorse, Yukon
Tuesday, May 11, 2021 — 1:00 p.m.
THE FIRST SESSION OF THE 35th LEGISLA=
TIVE
ASSEMBLY OF YUKON CONVENED IN THE ASSEMBLY CHAMBER AT 1:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY,=
MAY
11, 2021
Proclamation
Clerk: ̶= 0;TO THE MEMBERS of the Legislative Assembly of Yukon, and to all others whom this m= ay concern
“GREETINGS
“A PROCLAMATION
“[Yukon Act (Canada)]
“= ;KNOW YE THAT under and by virtue of the power vested in the Commissioner of Yukon u= nder the Yukon Act (Canada), the Legislative Assembly of Yukon is summoned to meet for dispatch of business = in the Legislative Assembly Chamber, Yukon Government Administration Building, Whitehorse, Yukon, on May 11, 2021 at the hour of one o’clock in the afternoon.
“= ;ALL OF WHICH all persons concerned are required to take notice and to govern themselves accordingly.
“= ;GIVEN UNDER my hand and seal of Yukon, at Whitehorse, Yukon, May 4, 2021. =
“= ;Angélique Bernard
“= ;Commissioner of Yukon”
REPORT
ON MEMBERS ELECTED
Clerk: Honou= rable members, the following letter, dated April 20, 2021, was sent by the Chief Electoral Officer of Yukon to the Commissioner of the Yukon, the Hon. = Angélique Bernard:
“= ;Dear Commissioner:
“= ;As required by section 308 of the Elec= tions Act, I am pleased to advise you that the returns of the writ for the general election of Members to the Yukon Legislative Assembly, held April 1= 2, 2021, have been received.
“= ;The date of the return of the writ was set as April 19, 2021 when the writ was issue= d on March 12, 2021.
“= ;The returning officers have certified in their return of the writ that the memb= ers duly elected for their electoral district by having received the largest nu= mber of ballots lawfully cast, and in the case of Vuntut Gwitchin, elected follo= wing the drawing of lots, are:
“= ;Copperbelt North, Currie Dixon;
“= ;Copperbelt South, Scott Kent;
“= ;Klondike, Sandy Silver;
“= ;Kluane, Wade Istchenko;
“= ;Lake Laberge, Brad Cathers;
“= ;Mayo-Tatchun, Jeremy Harper;
“= ;Mount Lorne-Southern Lakes, John Streicker;
“= ;Mountainview, Jeanie McLean (Dendys);
“= ;Pelly-Nisutlin, Stacey Hassard;
“= ;Porter Creek Centre, Yvonne Clarke;
“= ;Porter Creek North, Geraldine Van Bibber;
“= ;Porter Creek South, Ranj Pillai;
“= ;Riverdale North, Nils Clarke;
“= ;Riverdale South, Tracy McPhee;
“= ;Takhini-Kopper King, Kate White;
“= ;Vuntut Gwitchin, Annie Blake;
“= ;Watson Lake, Patti McLeod;
“= ;Whitehorse Centre, Emily Tredger;
“= ;Whitehorse West, Richard Mostyn.
“= ;In the event the return of the writ date is required in accordance with Yukon Act section 11(1), the date = of the return of the writ is April 19, 2021. The Yukon Act states that ‘no Legislative Assembly shall continue for longer than five years after the date of the return of the writ for a general election, but the Commissioner may dissolve it before then.’= p>
“= ;Sincerely,
“= ;H. Maxwell Harvey
“= ;Chief Electoral Officer”
Commissioner Bernard enters the Chamber announce=
d by
her Aide-de-Camp
Clerk: I am commanded by the Commissioner, in her capacity as Lieutenant Governor, to s= tate that she does not see fit to declare the causes of the summoning of the pre= sent Assembly of this territory until a Speaker of this Assembly shall have been chosen according to law, but today, at a subsequent hour, she will declare = the causes of the calling of this Assembly.
Commissioner Bernard leaves the Chamber accompan=
ied by
her Aide-de-Camp
Motion
No. 1 — Election of Speaker
Clerk: Honou= rable members, nominations are invited for the Office of Speaker of this Assembly= .
Hon. Mr. Silver: I move, seconded by the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Leader of t= he Third Party:
THAT J= eremy Harper, Member for Mayo-Tatchun, do take the Chair of this Assembly as Spea= ker.
Clerk: It ha= s been moved by the Hon. Premier, seconded by the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Leader of the Third Party:
THAT J=
eremy
Harper, Member for Mayo-Tatchun, do take the Chair of this Assembly as Spea=
ker.
Some Hon. Members: Agreed.
Clerk: The a= yes have it, and Jeremy Harper, Member for Mayo-Tatchun, is, by direction of this Assembly, duly elected as Speaker of the Yukon Legislative Assembly.=
Motion No. 1 agreed to
SPEAKER’S
ADDRESS TO THE ASSEMBLY
Speaker: I j= ust want to recognize the chiefs in the gallery: Grand Chief Peter Johnston, Chief Roberta Joseph, Acting Chief Morris Morrison, and Deputy Chief Maria Benoit= .
First =
of all, it
is an honour and privilege to be elected into this role by my colleagues. I
would also like to thank the people of the Mayo-Tatchun riding for giving me
the opportunity to be their representative in the Legislative Assembly. I w=
ould
like to express my thanks to the Assembly for the honour of being the 26
The im= portance of the Speaker’s role is to ensure that the business of the Legislati= ve Assembly is conducted in an independent, fair, and respectful manner. To th= at end, it is the Speaker’s duty to be impartial and to treat all members equally and without favour. This high standard must be met in order to main= tain the confidence and respect of the Legislative Assembly, and I commit today = to carry on this tradition.
To the honourable members, I ask that you conduct yourselves with passion, honour,= and respect for one another.
As wel= l, I will follow my traditions of my Northern Tutchone ancestors, which are sharing, caring, teaching, and respect in everything that I do as the Speaker and as= the elected MLA representing the Mayo-Tatchun riding. These are the standards by which I live.
I have= lived in the Yukon all my life and I am of Northern Tutchone heritage on my mother’s side and Southern Tutchone heritage on my father’s sid= e. My ancestors have lived here for generations and generations, and by follow= ing their teachings and principles, I hope to improve the lifestyle and quality= of life for future generations of Yukoners.
To my = wife, Shari Wrixon, and our two dogs, = Remie and Duke, thank you for your unconditional support and love through my life’s journey. Thank you to my friends and family for your unconditi= onal love and support.
Mr.&nb= sp;Clerk, will you please advise the Commissioner, in her capacity as Lieutenant Governor, that the Assembly is now prepared to hear the Speech from the Thr= one.
Clerk withdraws to ask Commissioner to return
Speaker: We = are now prepared to hear the Speech from the Throne.
Commissioner Bernard enters the Chamber announce=
d by
her Aide-de-Camp
SPEAKER’S
ADDRESS TO THE COMMISSIONER
Speaker: Mad= am Commissioner, the Members of the Legislative Assembly have elected me to be their Speaker, and I recognize the importance of the duties now given to me. If, in the performance of those duties, I should at any time make a mistake, the fault is mine and not that of the Assembly, whose servant I am. At this time, so that all members of the Assembly can best carry out their duty to Yukon, to their country, and to the Queen, I would claim for them their undoubted rights and privileges, especially freedom of speech in their deba= tes, access to your person when necessary, and your favourable consideration of their proceedings.
RESPONSE
BY THE COMMISSIONER
Commissioner:̳= 5;Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to declare to you that I believe in the duty of the Assembly a= nd, not doubting that the Assembly’s proceedings will be conducted with wisdo= m, temper, and care, I grant and allow the Assembly’s constitutional privileges. I assure you that the Assembly shall have ready access to me and that the Assembly’s proceedings, words, and actions will receive from= me favourable consideration.
Please= be seated.
SPEECH
FROM THE THRONE
Commissioner:̳= 5;Honourable members, friends, and fellow Yukoners, we are gathered today on the traditi= onal territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council. It is an honour to address this Assembly whose members represent t= he great people of the Yukon residing on the traditional territories of 14 distinct First Nations with whom we share this land.
This A= ssembly has represented the will of Yukoners for over 40 years, ever since the territory achieved responsible government. Many individuals have made impor= tant contributions to the governance of our territory during that time. This includes two of my esteemed predecessors, former Yukon Commissioners Art Pearson and Doug Bell. Sadly, both of them passed away recently — Mr.= Pearson in December and Mr. Bell in April.
Both w= ere directly involved in one of the most significant transitions in the territory’s history. Mr. Pearson was a scientist and environmentalist. He became Commissioner in 1976, at a time when members we= re advocating for more responsibilities to be placed in the hands of elected officials. Mr. Pearson later went into business and became president of the Chamber of Commerce. He also created the Yukon Lotteries Commission and= was involved in the establishment of the Yukon Science Institute.
Mr.&nb= sp;Bell served as Whitehorse city councillor before becoming Deputy Commissioner un= der Mr. Pearson. In 1979, as the territory’s Administrator and later as Commissioner, = Mr. Bell oversaw the transition to the territory’s first wholly elected Cabine= t, forever transforming governance in the territory. Mr. Bell was committ= ed to accountable government and later joined the fourth estate as the publish= er of the Yukon News. A passionate writer who took great joy in serving his community, Mr. Bell was appoi= nted to the Order of Canada and awarded the Order of Yukon in recognition of this life of service.
Yukone= rs across the territory were also saddened to learn of the recent passing of Darius E= lias and Archie Lang. Both were respected members of this Assembly. Mr. Eli= as faithfully represented the Vuntut Gwitchin people of Old Crow for 10 years.= His service to his community and dedication to the land began in his youth and = carried on throughout his life. Mr. Elias was a fierce and articulate advocate= for the Porcupine caribou herd and travelled extensively to educate the world a= bout its critical habitat and cultural importance to the Gw= ich’in people.
Mr.&nb= sp;Lang represented Porter Creek Centre for nearly a decade, serving as a Cabinet minister in several portfolios. A great champion of the Yukon, Mr. Lang operated several businesses throughout the territory focused on tourism and hospitality. Mr. Lang’s encyclopaedic knowledge of the territory’s history and deft sense of humour contributed to his legen= dary storytelling and larger-than-life personality.
All Yu= koners have benefitted from the contributions that Mr. Pearson, Mr. Bell= , Mr. Lang, and Mr. Elias made to our territory. We offer our sincere condolences = to their families and all their friends.
Your g= overnment has worked tirelessly to make the territory a better place to live for all Yukoners. It has partnered with other governments to grow the territoryR= 17;s economy while protecting the environment and investing in healthier communities. The territory has enjoyed economic growth every year since 201= 6, including during the pandemic. Yukon continues to have the lowest unemploym= ent rate in the country.
Your g= overnment has built strong relationships with Yukon First Nations to advance reconciliation. The revitalization of the Yukon Forum has allowed leaders f= rom across the territory to collaborate and advance joint priorities for the benefit of all Yukoners. Much can be accomplished when we are paddling in t= he same direction.
Yukon = is the first jurisdiction in Canada with a strategy to respond to the national inq= uiry into missing and murdered indigenous women and girls and two-spirt-plus individuals. This territory-wide strategy embodies the promise to change th= is tragic national story from one of grief, desperation, and loss to one of healing, grace, and reconciliation. It is another example of how the Yukon continues to lead the country when it comes to meaningful reconciliation wi= th First Nation people.
Your g= overnment has improved health care services, expanded mental health resources, decrea= sed surgical wait times, and made medical travel more flexible and affordable. = It has modernized legislation and policies to make the territory more inclusive and welcoming for all Yukoners.
It has= increased housing options for Yukoners by investing in affordable community and senio= rs housing throughout the territory and supporting the private sector and NGOs= to build more housing units.
Your g= overnment has also worked in collaboration with First Nations and municipalities to develop a territory-wide strategy to tackle climate change and build a stro= ng, resilient, and sustainable future for the territory. Yukon’s economy = is strong, even in the midst of a pandemic. Reducing the tax burden on busines= ses and increasing local procurement opportunities has helped Yukon businesses = hire more staff and diversify products and services. Creating a five-year capita= l plan to inform businesses, First Nations, and municipalities about infrastructure projects has increased coordination and improved planning for construction projects.
Develo= ping the Yukon Tourism Development Strategy in collaboration with the tourism sector has set a 10-year vision that takes a whole-of-Yukon approach to sustainable tourism. Working with partners to op= en the NorthLight Innovation hub — the first= in the north — and investing in our entrepreneurs has positioned the Yuk= on as a leader in the tech and knowledge sectors while increasing local traini= ng and investment opportunities.
An end= uring commitment to growing and diversifying the economy while supporting local businesses has built up our economic resiliency. Your government recognizes that there is much more work to do to keep building on what has been accomplished over the last five years.
This i= s a rare moment in the history of our territory. For the first time in nearly 30 yea= rs, Yukoners have elected a minority government to lead them forward. Yukoners = have sent a clear message that we need to move forward together for the benefit = of our territory. There is much more that unites us than divides us, and the p= ath forward will be found on common ground. Your government is committed to tak= ing a new approach to governance and working collaboratively to make the Yukon a better place to live.
To thi= s end, an innovative agreement has been established between two parties representing = the majority of Yukoners to ensure a strong, stable government to guide the Yuk= on forward over the next two years. It identifies agreed-upon areas where government can take immediate action to benefit Yukoners in a way that is supported by the members of this Assembly. The agreement will advance a ran= ge of important legislative and policy initiatives that will make democracy wo= rk for people while addressing climate change and protecting the environment. = It will create jobs in a sustainable economy, improve the services that people count on, and make life more affordable for Yukoners.
This a= greement is founded on the belief that this Assembly works best when all members can= put forward good ideas and come together to support those ideas that advance the public good. It embodies the spirit of collaboration and puts the people of= the Yukon at the forefront of our politics.
The gl= obal COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need to put people at the heart of our decision-making. In the past year and a half, more than 150 million people worldwide have contracted this deadly disease, including more than 1.2 mill= ion Canadians. The pandemic has tested and continues to test the strength of our health care system and the resiliency of our social fabric.
Every = single Yukoner has been impacted by the pandemic. From daycares to schools, workpl= aces to social events, your lives have been disrupted on an unprecedented scale. Despite many challenges, the Yukon has demonstrated tremendous resolve in t= he face of this public health emergency. Following the recommendations of our public health officials has allowed us to contain the spread of COVID-19 in= our territory and keep our case count low.
Swift = and comprehensive government intervention has ensured that individuals and businesses are supported and our communities remain healthy and safe. Your government worked collaboratively with its territorial, provincial, and fed= eral colleagues, advocating strongly for northern, remote, and indigenous communities to receive priority access to vaccines as soon as they became available. As a result of strong leadership, the people of the Yukon had the opportunity to be immunized from COVID-19 well before the rest of Canada and much of the world. Yukoners stepped up and took their shot, and our territo= ry is leading the country in vaccination rates.
We are= in this very fortunate position thanks to our dedicated team of health care professionals, public servants, and community leaders. Most importantly, we= are in a fortunate position thanks to the vigilance and community-minded spirit= of Yukoners.
While = our territory has responded well, the pandemic is not over. Its effects will continue to be felt as we go forward. Your government will continue to prov= ide strong, steady leadership to protect the health and safety of Yukoners and = help them maintain their livelihoods.
The su= pport programs put in place by your government have become the gold standard acro= ss Canada, and they will continue to be provided for as long as they are neede= d. This includes the paid sick leave rebate, the Yukon business relief program, the tourism accommodation sector support, and the tourism non-accommodation sector support. Government will ensure that Yukon businesses have the assistance they need when they need it. Your government will keep working closely with Yukon’s chief medical officer of health to continually r= e‑evaluate the level of restrictions that are put in place to protect Yukoners from COVID-19. It will work toward reopening our borders safely to ensure that Yukon’s tourism and visitor economy can return to normal as soon as possible.
Like o= ther parts of the country, our territory is in the grip of another public health crisis that has been overshadowed by COVID-19, one that is more silent and much mo= re tragic. In the past five years, 40 Yukoners have lost their lives to opioid= s. Families and communities throughout the territory are grieving from this tragedy. Significant action has been taken over the past several years to combat opioid overdoses and reduce harm to our communities.
Yukon&= #8217;s Mental Wellness and Substance Use hubs have dramatically improved access to withdrawal services, counselling, and inpatient treatments in rural communities. The introduction and expansion of opioid medical treatments at= the Referred Care Clinic has helped individuals address substance use problems.= The take-home naloxone program and expanded drug checking services have helped = to save lives. The opioid crisis in the Yukon would have been much worse witho= ut these critical interventions, yet it is clear that more must be done to add= ress the pernicious effects of opioids on our communities.
Your g= overnment will continue to build on the success of these initiatives, and it will increase the resources available to those who need support. Yukon’s mental health resources will be coordinated to provide mental health servic= es to all Yukoners seven days per week. Immediate action will be taken to deve= lop a safe drug supply program for the territory, along with a supervised consump= tion site.
These = innovative programs have been shown to significantly decrease substance-related deaths across Canada and will help us to reduce the harm caused by these dangerous drugs. The government will work with Yukon First Nation governments and the Government of Canada to fund a rural, on-the-land mental health and substan= ce treatment centre. These initiatives will support healthy and safe families throughout our territory.
The Yu= kon continues to grow and reveal its endless possibilities. Our population now exceeds 42,500 people. People from across the country and around the world continue to see the Yukon as a place full of promise and adventure, a place= to raise a family, a place to get an advanced education, a place to reconnect = with nature and explore the outdoors, a place to embrace rich indigenous cultures and learn from traditional ways of knowing and doing, a place to start a business, a place to enjoy unique and authentic experiences, a place to experience an unparalleled quality of life and pursue your dreams. <= /p>
To sup= port a strong and prosperous future for the territory, the government will continu= e to take action to make the lives of Yukoners healthier, happier, and more affordable. Our COVID-19 support programs have allowed Yukon businesses to = keep operating during the pandemic and kept the economy moving forward. The Yukon was one of only two jurisdictions in Canada to experience GDP growth in 2020 despite the pandemic.
Your g= overnment is committed to carrying our economic momentum forward. This year, we’= ;ll see the launch of the Great Yukon Summer campaign. This innovative campaign will create incentives for Yukon tourism operators to offer Yukoners rates = for tourism products and services through additional funding opportunities. It = will help Yukon businesses build marketing campaigns to maximize the attraction = of Yukoners this summer, provide funding for Yukon organizations to hold local events, and support the new Mountain Music Festival together with the MacBr= ide Museum.
Yukon&= #8217;s tourism sector is a vital part of our economy, providing good jobs across t= he territory and creating economic benefits in our communities. The Great Yuko= n Summer campaign will encourage Yukoners to explore the territory while supporting = our extensive network of tourism operators. It will help the tourism sector reb= ound stronger than ever, while continued COVID-19 support programs ensure that it will recover faster than any jurisdiction in Canada. When the danger of COVID-19 has passed, the Yukon will be one of the most exciting tourism destinations in the world. The ongoing implementation of the Yukon Tourism Development Strategy= will ensure that tourism operators can seize the immense opportunities in the post-pandemic world.
Our th= riving mining sector is the backbone of the territory’s economy. Your govern= ment will continue to work with industry partners to ensure that the Yukon has a flourishing mineral resource sector that everyone can support. By continuin= g to collaborate with major industry partners, we can ensure that they have local purchase programs to work with Yukon businesses wherever possible. <= /p>
A new = mineral exploration fund will support junior mining companies operating in the Yuko= n to search for the next major deposit. Developing a policy for mining and municipalities that promotes sustainable development will ensure that commu= nity values and plans are respected.
The recommendations of the independent mineral development strategy will be carefully analyzed as government works in collaboration with partners to develop successor mining legislation and increase regulatory clarity. Government will also continue to work with all partners on regulatory amendments to the Yukon Environment= al and Socio-economic Assessment Act to create a more streamlined assessment process.
The co= ming years will bring enormous opportunities for innovation and expansion in the Yukon. Everyone needs an opportunity to thrive, and your government will continue = to support workers and businesses while building capacity in our economy. Yukon’s minimum wage will be increased to $15.20 per hour this year. Government will create workforce development agreements to retrain workers = and support the transition to a green economy. A new immigration strategy will = be created to support the increased workforce requirements of businesses and industry. An innovation commission will be established to attract new technology start-ups and grow Yukon’s digital ecosystem. This will be complemented by an innovation strategy that will continue to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
In par= tnership with the private sector, a flexible field house complex will be developed f= or athletics and large public conferences and events. This will support Yukon’s bid to host the 60th anniversary of the Canada Win= ter Games in 2027. Hosting the Canada Winter Games presents an exciting opportu= nity to share our culture and community with the rest of Canada.
Your g= overnment recognizes that the climate crisis needs to be considered at the heart of a= ll its decisions. This is the only way that we can guarantee a safe future for= the next generation of Yukoners. There will continue to be a moratorium on frac= king in the Yukon. Working together with Yukoners, the City of Whitehorse, the <= span class=3DSpellE>Kwanlin Dün First Na= tion, the Ta’an Kwäch= ’än Council, and Yukon University, your government will set aside land to permanently protect McIntyre Creek for present and future generations of Yukoners. This area has tremendous historic, cultural, and academic importa= nce. The creation of McIntyre Creek park will benefit all Yukoners and help slow biodiversity loss in the Yukon by protecting important wildlife areas. Yukon’s wetlands strategy will be completed in the coming year to gui= de the management of activities in wetlands across the territory.
Workin= g together with partners to complete the Dawson land use planning process will be a priority. Government will continue to implement Our Clean Future — A Yukon strategy for climate change, energy and a green economy.
The st= rategy will see reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less reliance on fossil fuels, a= nd significant investments in renewable energy. To meet the urgent need to add= ress the climate crisis, your government will amend its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target to a 45-percent reduction by 2030, compared to 2010 emissi= ons. Plans to reach this more ambitious target will be developed by a newly established Yukon climate leadership council.
The vo= ice of youth is particularly important as we look to tackle climate change. Govern= ment actions to address climate change will be informed by Yukon’s Youth P= anel on Climate Change to ensure that the next generation has a voice in their future. Including the perspectives of our youth will ensure that Yukon̵= 7;s approach to addressing climate change is comprehensive and forward thinking. Your government will take action to ensure that the territory’s transition to a green economy creates opportunities across the territory as= we move toward a more clean and sustainable future.
The Yu= kon has one of the greenest energy systems in the country. The government’s vision is for the territory to be powered on 97-percent renewable energy, e= ven as our population and economy continue to grow. To advance this vision, government will support the implementation of Yukon Energy’s 10-year renewable electricity plan. This will see historic investments in several m= ajor energy projects, including the construction of a new pump storage facility = at Moon Lake to store extra power not used in the summer so that it can be use= d in the winter.
In par= tnership with the Taku River Tlingit First Nation, the <= span class=3DSpellE>Atlin hydro plant will be expanded and connected to Yukon’s grid, increasing our hydro capacity. The transmission network= in the Southern Lakes region will be expanded and upgraded to connect projects= to the grid and allow for future sales opportunities with our neighbours in Skagway.
As Yuk= on’s economy continues to grow in a sustainable and responsible way, it is criti= cal that all Yukoners are supported to live healthy, happy lives. With the implementation of the Putting People First report underway, the Yukon is on track to become a health care le= ader in Canada. Your government will continue to take action to make health and social services more integrated, collaborative, and people-centred to better meet the needs of Yukoners.
A new = bilingual health centre in Whitehorse will improve care for the Yukon’s francop= hone population. Un nouveau centre de santé <= span class=3DSpellE>bilingue qui ouvrira ses portes à White= horse améliorera les services o= fferts à la population francophone du territoire.
A new = secure medical unit will be constructed at the Whitehorse General Hospital. The way in whi= ch health care professionals are regulated will be improved, and coverage will= be increased to groups such as psychologists, optometrists, and allied health professionals.
In par= tnership with First Nations, Yukon University, and the Government of Canada, your government will support Yukoners to pursue careers in health and social ser= vice program delivery.
Yukon&= #8217;s aging-in-place strategy will continue to be implemented, increasing support= ive housing for seniors and expanding the home first program.
Your g= overnment will work in partnership with the federal government to support a Canada-wi= de universal pharmacare program model. It will also take action to provide den= tal benefits to uninsured Yukoners.
The co= st of birth control and fertility treatments will be subsidized, along with the c= ost of period products for those in need. Midwifery will continue to be integra= ted into Yukon’s health care system, working toward a fully funded program later this year.
Your g= overnment will continue to provide funding for the new universal early childhood education program introduced last month. This program subsidizes each licen= sed childcare space by $700 per month, with additional subsidies for low-income families. This is an historic investment in Yukon families, providing them = with more disposable income and making their lives more affordable.
Yukon&= #8217;s strong future requires an effective education system that supports all learners. Your government is committed to improving education opportunities= and outcomes for all Yukon students. As the territory’s population contin= ues to grow, more classrooms are needed to educate the next generations of Yukoners. A new elementary school will be built in Whistle Bend in the comi= ng years, as well as a new school in Burwash Landing.
Govern= ment will continue to work with the Yukon First Nations Chiefs Committee on Education= and all Yukon First Nations to improve Yukon First Nation students’ educa= tion outcomes. In collaboration with First Nation partners, a Yukon First Nation school board will be created to ensure that Yukon First Nations can meaningfully shape their children’s education.
The Yu= kon is now home to the first university in Canada’s north. The government will support Yukon University’s new science building and its inclusion of traditional knowledge. It will also work with the university to investigate= a varsity sports program. &n= bsp;
Every = Yukoner should feel safe in their community. Your government will keep working with partners to make all Yukon communities safer. It will enhance our community safety planning program and ensure a consistent approach to funding communi= ty safety planning activities across the territory.
Workin= g together with stakeholders and community partners, the sexualized assault response t= eam program will continue to be enhanced and expanded to Yukon communities. Your government will release an LGBTQ2S+ action plan to guide the Yukon’s continuing shift toward a more inclusive and welcoming society.
A new = program will be established to provide supportive community housing to justice-involved women that is gender responsive, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed. This reflects the government’s commitment to increasing community saf= ety and justice through Yukon’s MMIWG2S+ strategy.
There = is an urgent need to increase access to stable and affordable housing for Yukoners across the territory. Your government has taken significant action over the past several years to meet the diverse housing needs of Yukoners. The first= -ever Housing First residence in the north was opened in Whitehorse, providing sa= fe, secure, low-barrier housing for the most vulnerable in our capital city. Building on this success, the next Housing First project will be built in Watson Lake. Working in partnership with the private sector and NGOs, the government has supported hundreds of new affordable housing units as well as major new supportive housing projects to increase options for Yukoners acro= ss the housing continuum. The government will work with the private sector on developing the 5th and Rogers land parcel in Whitehorse while ensuring that the project helps increase the amount of available housing, including rentals. Together with the City of Whitehorse and the private sec= tor, it will also look at relocating the grader station in the Marwell area of Whitehorse to allow for future development of housing.
During= the previous mandate, your government tripled investment in lot development. Th= is trend will continue, as the government plans to release 1,000 new lots acro= ss the Yukon in the coming years. Your government will also explore new models= of providing housing that is affordable and accessible to Yukoners. A land par= cel grant will support the establishment of a Yukon community land trust to all= ow for the creation of permanently affordable housing in Whitehorse.
Yukon&= #8217;s future prosperity will be built through strong partnerships with First Nati= ons. Actively upholding and promoting the spirit and intent of the self-governme= nt agreements is the foundation of these partnerships. Genuine partnerships ba= sed on respect and cooperation will continue to generate benefits and positive outcomes for all Yukoners. Your government will work with partners to imple= ment Yukon’s MMIWG2S+ strategy to help our society heal and move forward together. Engaging the Yukon Forum to advance priorities in critical areas = such as health and social services, education, justice, and heritage will allow government to continue to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commissio= n’s calls to action.
Your g= overnment will continue to implement Breaking Trail Together, an innovative pu= blic service plan that will ensure that government is inclusive and representati= ve of the people it serves. Yukon First Nation traditions and practices will a= lso continue to be incorporated into this Assembly so that it better reflects t= he people it represents.
The in= terests of Yukoners are best served by a modern government that is responsive to its needs. Your government will keep working to make Yukon services and laws mo= re open, inclusive, accessible, and effective. It will continue to modernize a= nd update Yukon’s legislative framework to ensure that it responds to current realities and does not discriminate based on gender identity, marit= al status, or sexual orientation.
The go= vernment will consult with Yukoners about your vision for electoral reform and bring forward recommendations in the coming year. It will introduce laws to make = the Yukon a better place to live.
A mode=
rnized Motor Vehicles Act will improve safety for all road user=
s. A
new workplace safety and compensation act will improve Yukon’s workpl=
ace
safety and compensation systems to ensure that workers have the support that
they deserve. A new clean energy act will legislate Yukon’s greenhouse
gas reduction and renewable energy generation targets. Single-use plastics =
will
be banned in the territory. The Territorial
Lands (Yukon) Act will be up=
dated
to help manage the use, maintenance, access, and closure of resource roads.=
Our
Safer Communities and
Neighbourhoods Act will be
enhanced to help target abuse, exploitation, the illegal use of firearms, a=
nd
criminal organizations in our territory. Changes to the Child Care Act will enhance the delivery of the new universal early childhood edu=
cation
program.
As we look to emerge from the challeng=
es of
the pandemic, there is much hope and opportunity on the horizon.
The Yu= kon remains a place full of promise — promise that can be realized through purpose and hard work. The territory’s swift, measured, and comprehen= sive response to the COVID-19 pandemic has set an example for all Canadians. Lea= ding the country in vaccination rates has positioned the Yukon to lead the transition into a post-pandemic world. It is time to move forward together = on the path to recovery. The nation’s eyes are on the Yukon as we forge = our next steps.
Honour= able members, Yukoners do not expect you to agree on everything. They do expect you to sh= are a common interest and a common responsibility in working toward a more prosperous future for the people of this territory, their families, and the= ir communities. May this guide your deliberations and may you carry out your responsibilities with respect for each other and compassion and understandi= ng for others.
Thank = you, merci, mahsi’ cho, günilschish.
Commissioner Bernard leaves the Chamber accompan=
ied by
her Aide-de-Camp
Speaker: At = this time, I will call the House to order.
I woul= d like to begin this Sitting of the Legislative Assembly by respectfully acknowledging all Yukon First Nations and also that we are meeting on the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.
We wil= l proceed at this time with prayers.
Prayers
Introduction of Bills
Bill No. 1: Introduction = and First Reading
Ms. Tredger: I move that Bill No. 1, entitled Act = to Perpetuate a Certain Ancient Right¸ be now introduced and read a first time.
Speaker: It = has been moved by the Member for Whitehorse Centre that Bill No. 1, entitled Act to Perpetuate a Certain Ancient Ri= ght, be now introduced and read a first time.
Motion for introduction and first reading of Bil=
l No.
1 agreed to
tabling Speech from the Throne
Speaker: I w= ish to inform the Assembly that I have received a copy of the Speech from the Thro= ne, which I will now table.
Consideration of Speech from the Thr= one
Hon. Mr. Silver: Mr. Speaker, I move:
THAT t= he Speech from the Throne be considered on a day following.
Speaker: It = has been moved by the Hon. Premier:
THAT t= he Speech from the Throne be considered on a day following.
Mot=
ion agreed
to
Hon. Ms. McPhee: Mr. Speaker, I wish to inform the House, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 26(2), that consideration of a motion for an Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne will take place on Wednesday, May 12, 2021.
Motion
No. 2 — Election of Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committee of the Whol=
e
Speaker: I w= ill now ask if the House is prepared to elect a Deputy Speaker.
Hon. Ms. McPhee: Mr. Speaker, I move:
THAT A= nnie Blake, Member for Vuntut Gwitchin, be elected Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committee of the Whole.
Speaker: It = has been moved by the Government House Leader:
THAT A= nnie Blake, Member for Vuntut Gwitchin, be elected Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committee of the Whole.
Motion No. 2 agreed to
Motion No. 3 — Election of Deputy Chair of Committee of the Whole
Speaker: I w= ill now ask whether the House is prepared to elect a Deputy Chair of Committee of t= he Whole.
Hon. Ms. McPhee: Mr. Speaker, I move:
THAT E= mily Tredger, Member for Whitehorse Centre, be elected Deputy Chair of Committee= of the Whole.
Speaker: It = has been moved by the Government House Leader:
THAT E= mily Tredger, Member for Whitehorse Centre, be elected Deputy Chair of Committee= of the Whole.
Motion No. 3 agreed to
Hon. Ms. McPhee: Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.
Speaker: It = has been moved by the Government House Leader that the House do now adjourn.<= /p>
Motion agreed to
Speaker: Thi= s House now stands adjourned until 1:00 p.m. tomorrow.
The House adjourned at 1:56 p.m.
The following sessional paper wa=
s tabled
May 11, 2021:
35-1-1= span>
Speech from the Throne (Speaker Har= per)
The following sessional paper wa=
s tabled
May 11, 2021:
35-1-1 Speech from the Throne
(Speaker Harper)
Written notice was given of the
following motions May 11, 2021:
Motion N=
o. 4
Re: length of 2021 Special Sitting =
(McPhee)
Motion No. 5
Re: authorization for the Assembly =
to meet
via video conference during the 2021 Special Sitting (McPhee)
Motion No. 6
Re: pairing arrangements for the 20=
21
Special Sitting (McPhee)
Motion No. 7
Re: Member participation in sitting=
s of the
House via teleconference due to COVID-19 during the 2021 Special Sitting
(McPhee)
Motion No. 8
Re: Appointments to the MembersR=
17;
Services Board (McPhee)
Motion No. 9
Re: Appointments to the Standing Co=
mmittee
on Rules, Elections and Privileges (McPhee)
Motion No. 10
Re: Appointments to the Standing Co=
mmittee
on Statutory Instruments (McPhee)
Motion No. 11
Re: Appointments to the Standing Co=
mmittee
on Public Accounts (McPhee)
Motion No. 12
Re: Appointments to the Standing Co=
mmittee
on Appointments to Major Government Boards and Committees (McPhee)
Motion No. 13
Re: operating costs of the Whitehor= se Emergency Shelter (Cathers)
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