Labour Market News

Want to find out more about local or provincial labour market history? The labour market news archive may be a good place to start.

In this section, you can browse archived news titles, whose links are no longer functional, for up to one year from the current date. The archived news can help you understand the labour market trends in geographic areas and industries that are of interest to you.

• Week of 2024-11-04 to 2024-11-08

  • The Yukon government updated the Registered Nurses Profession Regulation, allowing nurses, nurse practitioners, new graduates, and internationally trained nurses to directly apply for licenses in the Yukon, effective November 3, 2024. Previously, nurses needed to register in another Canadian jurisdiction before the Yukon.

    yukon.ca

  • Universities Canada approved Yukon University’s membership on October 29, joining 96 approved Canadian universities. Yukon University can now develop programs independently and offer accreditation programs like nursing and social work, as well as continue offering trades diplomas.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Yukon government and University of New Brunswick are partnering to provide a virtual Bachelor of Nursing degree program to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) working in the Yukon. The September 2024 cohort has 17 Yukon LPNs, and the fall 2025 cohort has space for up to 20. The Yukon government is covering one third of the cost of tuition for this program for all Yukon participants.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is implementing jury recommendations from a coroner’s inquest into four Indigenous women’s deaths at the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter in April 2024. The recommendations include prioritizing hiring experienced Indigenous individuals to create culturally safe environments, supports and services.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is reopening the public community space for the winter at the Jim Smith Building in Whitehorse on November 4. A social worker and other staff will be onsite to help provide support services such as warming areas and harm reduction supplies.

    yukon.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse is struggling to hire two building inspectors to help meet demand for building permits. There is no specific education program for building inspectors, leading the City to turn to Red Seal contractors like carpenters. Salaries and benefits have been updated to attract workers.

    yukon-news.com

  • The federal government is contributing $3.7M for EntrepreNorth to expand programming, training, and start an online market over five years as part of its Northern Indigenous Entrepreneur Growth and Ecosystem Development Project. EntrepreNorth aims to create new jobs and expand opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs in the territories.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-10-28 to 2024-11-01

  • The City of Whitehorse hired 12 workers to its snow and ice control team, reaching a total of over 50 staff. Day and night shifts will be covered. The city also added 12 new pieces of equipment and established new contractor agreements to respond to major events.

    whitehorse.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife’s street outreach program pays its workers half the amount that shelter workers are paid, according to a review by consulting firm Triage Metrix. The Yellowknife Women’s Society operates the outreach program with funding from the city, transporting vulnerable individuals to shelters 12 hours per day.

    cbc.ca

  • ColdAcre Food Systems closed on October 2 because of financial challenges brought on by the landslide at Victoria Gold’s Eagle mine in June. Since 2019, ColdAcre developed and manufactured food system technology to grow food in cold climates. ColdAcre had work in Whitehorse, Dawson, Mayo in the Yukon and Inuvik, NWT.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Yukon government is helping the construction of a new 45-unit residence in downtown Whitehorse to address housing needs. Ketza Construction Corporation has been awarded a $27.3M contract to build the residence, which was granted in July 2024. The building will be energy efficient and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government has temporarily closed Takhini Haven, the only women’s halfway house program, due to low admission rates and to evaluate the program. In 2023, the Yukon government provided $1.2M for non-profit Connective to operate the program, housing up to eight women transitioning out of the criminal justice system. The evaluation is expected to be completed in May 2025

    aptnnews.ca

  • The Yukon government is allocating $343,000 in an agreement with the Council of Yukon First Nations to co-develop a framework for monitoring ecological and species effects in the territory until 2026. This agreement is part of the Yukon government’s Conservation Capacity Fund, which supports seven Indigenous-led projects with a total of $2.1M.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-10-21 to 2024-10-25

  • The Yukon government completed its five-year review of the Cannabis Control and Regulation Act and found that wholesale-to-retail cannabis sales grew from $2.03M in 2018-2019 to $9.2M in 2023-2024. The Yukon has a higher legal cannabis use (41%) than the national average (35%). Most Yukon residents purchase cannabis from licensed retailers. Some regulatory concerns persist.

    yukon.ca

  • Fireweed Metals completed its 2024 exploration program, including critical metals germanium and gallium by-products in its resource estimates for the Macpass project in the Yukon. These critical minerals, alongside zinc and tungsten, increase the economic opportunity at Macpass, positioning the project as a prominent critical mineral district in the world.

    canadianminingjournal.com

  • The Klondike Outreach employment services office in Dawson, Yukon, closed on October 1 due to a reduction in federal transfers for labor market development in the territory. The funding agreement between the non-profit organization and the Yukon government was set to expire in mid-October, with no successor agreement in place

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-10-14 to 2024-10-18

  • Fireweed Metals Corp. reported zinc and silver mineralization at a new target on the Macpass Project in the Yukon. The mineralization was identified near the surface and provides a positive prospect for further exploration.

    fireweedmetals.com

  • The Yukon government has published a report and operational plan addressing barriers to Indigenous recruitment in the territorial government. These barriers include biases and stereotypes, a lack of flexibility for family or community responsibilities, and challenges with the online recruitment system. The Yukon government is implementing a plan over 2023-2026 to address these barriers.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government increased the honorarium for volunteer firefighters from $22 per hour to $30.74 per hour on October 1. The honorarium will be provided for training and fire calls and may address the retention issues some fire departments are facing. This increase will apply to nine fire departments and six communities without fire departments in the territory.

    cbc.ca

  • Sitka Gold Corp. discovered visible gold in the first diamond drill holes at its RC Gold project in the Yukon. The visible gold mineralization is a positive indication of significant potential, though assay and analytical results are pending.

    sitkagoldcorp.com

  • Employees temporarily laid off from Victoria Gold's Eagle Mine are facing delays in receiving compensation. Over 250 Yukon workers need information from the mine’s receiver, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, to apply for compensation through Service Canada’s Wage Earner Protection Program. Service Canada granted PwC an extension, allowing application extensions for employees until December 26.

    yukonfed.com
• Week of 2024-10-07 to 2024-10-11

  • The federal government and City of Whitehorse are jointly contributing $850K to upgrading the Chilkoot Way route in Whitehorse. Improvements include a two-way protected bicycle lane, pedestrian crossing, signage, crossing markings, lighting, and traffic lights.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and Yukon governments renewed a 10-year Canada Community-Building Fund agreement which includes federal transfers of $94.5M over five years, and $200M in total over 10 years. The funding will go towards infrastructure projects that support land and housing development in the Yukon.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-09-30 to 2024-10-04

  • The Yukon government and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada signed a letter of intent to issue two-year work permits to Yukon foreign nationals whose work permits expired after May 16, or will expire before Dec 31, 2024. Eligible foreign nationals must apply for the permit through the Yukon Nominee Program by October 15 and be nominated by their employer.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-09-23 to 2024-09-27

  • The Government of Yukon selected GenMec ACL to build a new school in Burwash Landing, which will replace the aging Kluane Lake School in Destruction Bay. The project is estimated to cost $32.5M, with $21.6M coming from the territorial government and $10.8M from the federal government. The school is anticipated to be ready in the fall 2026.

    yukon.ca

  • A new Health and Wellness Centre recently opened in Old Crow. The centre provides various health and social services such as primary health care, mental health and substance use counselling.

    yukon.ca

  • The Government of Canada has conditionally approved up to $40M to analyze a 765km transmission line network that would connect the Yukon electrical grid to the North American grid in British Columbia. The funding includes a pre-feasibility study completed by the Government of Yukon.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of Yukon announced close to 150 workers are at the Victoria Gold Eagle mine site building a containment berm to address the contaminated water following June's major heap leach slide. The work is expected to take four weeks to complete.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-09-16 to 2024-09-20

  • The Yukon Water Board issued a request for proposals seeking technical support regarding its review of Victoria Gold’s water license for the Eagle mine. The technical support work could require 420 to 480 hours to complete and may include activities such as conducting investigations, audits, a public inquiry, and a public hearing.

    yukon-news.com
• Week of 2024-09-09 to 2024-09-13

  • The Yukon Supreme Court approved Selkirk First Nation’s (SFN) initial transaction in purchasing the abandoned Minto copper-gold mine. SFN seeks to prevent permanent closure of the mine. If successful, restarting the mine would create jobs, training opportunities, and business contracts in the region.

    cbc.ca

  • An increase in drug overdoses has led the Kwanlin Dün First Nation to declare a substance use health emergency. The First Nation plans to improve access to services and treatment by expanding community outreach teams and cultural supports.

    yukon-news.com
• Week of 2024-09-02 to 2024-09-06

  • The federal government, in collaboration with National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated, will be providing more than $34M towards four new housing projects. The projects, led by the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in Government in Dawson City and the Ta'an Kwäch'än Council in Whitehorse, will create safe and affordable housing in Indigenous communities in the Yukon.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government reported that around 94% of positions in Yukon schools were filled before the 2024-2025 school year. In addition, there is a 42% increase in on-call teacher recruitment when compared to the same period last year.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon Star newspaper closed after four months due to a lack of operating capital. Supported through a crowdfunding campaign, the newspaper began in May, after the previous newspaper, the Whitehorse Star, closed.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-08-26 to 2024-08-30

  • Alkan Air, Ross River Dena Council and Daylu Dena Council are collaborating to provide a flight school for First Nations in the Yukon and northern BC. Courses will be 14 months long and will be offered in several remote communities, starting in Faro, Yukon.

    cbc.ca

  • Two local entrepreneurs have subcontracted a government-subsidized mobile slaughterhouse to operate in Dawson City. The operation will move from its current location in Whitehorse in September.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-08-19 to 2024-08-23

  • The Yukon Medical Association has expressed concerns about the territory’s health care system citing labour shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and high service demand. The Government of Yukon has acknowledged the challenges and stated health care is a top priority.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government and First Kaska GP Ltd. are providing over $3.3M for a new transit service to connect Dawson City and Watson Lake to Whitehorse. The funding will support two new stops, two transit garages, and the purchase of seven transit vehicles.

    canada.ca

  • Victoria Gold Corp. was placed into receivership on August 14, 2024, following the failure of the heap leach pad at Eagle mine on June 24, 2024. As a result of the company being placed in receivership, the board of Victoria Gold has resigned.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-08-12 to 2024-08-16

  • The Yukon Literacy Coalition has started a new social enterprise in downtown Whitehorse, the S.S. Culinary food truck. The program aims to help people improve their employability by learning skills in the food industry as well as in entrepreneurship.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-08-05 to 2024-08-09

  • The Government of Canada is providing $114K to the Northern Cultural Expressions Society to support artists in the Yukon. The Society provides a three-year Market and Export Readiness project that provides business-related training to artists in the Yukon. The goal of the training is to prepare artists to bring their works to new markets.

    newswire.ca

  • The Government of Yukon and Yukon Hospital Corporation have announced the opening of 12 new long-term care rooms at Whistle Bend Place and five new hospital beds at Thomson Centre. Recruitment is ongoing to fill new positions created to provide services to the new rooms.

    yukon.ca

  • The Government of Yukon has halted consultation on mining licences within the Traditional Territory of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun for two months. The First Nation requested a halt to all mining activity following the June 24 landslide at Victoria Gold Eagle Gold Mine. The Government has also agreed to not license heap leach facilities in the Yukon until an independent review is conducted.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-07-29 to 2024-08-01

  • Cantex Mine Development Corp. has temporarily shut down exploration at its North Rackla project at the request of the First Nation of Na-cho Nyäk Dun in the Yukon. In the wake of Victoria Gold Corp’s Eagle Mine heap leach collapse, the First Nation has requested a halt to all mining activities on its territory while the heap leach incident is investigated.

    secureserver.net

  • The Yukon government is working to implement a Regional Waste Service model across the territory. Transfer stations in Braeburn, Johnson`s Crossing and Silver City will close effective October 1, 2024, and supplemental services and equipment will be provided. In addition, the government is upgrading operation and maintenance contracts to 12 unincorporated regional solid waste facilities to ensure consistent operating standards.

    yukon.ca

  • Gladiator has restarted its copper drilling project in the Whitehorse Copper Belt. The company seeks to continue drilling resources at its Cowley Park and Chiefs trend sites and conduct exploration at its Arctic Chief, Best Change, Cowley Park and Cub trend sites.

    gladiatormetals.com

  • The Kwanlin Dün First Nation, federal government and Ta'an Kwäch'än Council reached agreements under the Housing Accelerator Fund to expedite construction for 107 housing units over the next three years. The agreements will provide more than $7.2M and remove some of the barriers that slow the building of homes.

    newswire.ca

  • Victoria Gold Corp.’s CEO confirmed layoffs at the Eagle Gold mine where about 40% of the workforce were Yukoners. Some local contractors are also awaiting payment from Victoria Gold. On June 24, an ore collapse released up to 300K cubic metres of toxic sodium cyanide solution from containment.

    cbc.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse department responsible for building permits is experiencing a staffing shortage, resulting in permit approval delays. In the first half of 2024, total permits issued were down 38.7%, while residential permits were down 35.1%, when compared to last year. Construction firms are concerned about potential layoffs as skilled shortages already complicate hiring.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-07-22 to 2024-07-26

  • The Government of Yukon is providing over $895K to 22 community-based projects working to create economic opportunities. The funding will go towards various initiatives such various building and renovation projects, training programs, and various programs to support different demographics.

    yukon.ca

  • The federal government is providing a repayable contribution of $6M for Air North to procure a more fuel-efficient airplane, tools and spare parts for maintenance, and to construct a larger hangar. The airline is essential for boosting tourism and connecting people across the territory.

    canada.ca

  • BMC Minerals Ltd started a drilling program at its Kudz Ze Kayah silver-zinc project in the Yukon. The exploration program hired contractors from the local Kaska, Yukon, and northern BC. The program seeks silver-zinc and copper-gold mineralization.

    kudzzekayah.com
• Week of 2024-07-15 to 2024-07-19

  • The Yukon government is committing $80K in its renewed agreement with Mitacs to help companies find and onboard workers to grow Yukon businesses. The renewed agreement connects government, industry and researchers to place post-secondary interns with Northern companies.

    yukon.ca

  • The Whitehorse General Hospital is experiencing a high volume of patients with limited space. On July 10 there were 19 patients without beds and office and hallways spaces were being used for patient care. Non-emergency visitors are being referred to the walk-in clinic and the hospital is looking to EMS to help with staffing shortages.

    cbc.ca

  • On-call ambulance service in Eagle Plains, Yukon has stopped due to staffing shortages. The services was provided by a worker at the Yukon government highway maintenance camp, but the trained emergency responder has left Eagle Plains and no one has filled their place.

    cbc.ca

  • In the Yukon, production operations remain suspended at Victoria Gold’s Eagle mine while environmental mitigation is underway, after a landslide occurred on June 24. The collapse at the mine’s heap leach facility (HLF) resulted in about 4M tonnes of ore moving and cyanide fluid leaching into the surrounding environment. A restart can only occur with permission from the Yukon government and adequate financial resources.

    vgcx.com

  • The Yukon government, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the City of Whitehorse are conducting physical, cultural and economic feasibility studies for a new residential development. The studies include a Traditional Land Use study, a geophysical study, transportation and service assessments, and other wildlife and habitat studies.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-07-08 to 2024-07-12

  • The federal government is providing over $645K for two Yukon film production companies to build capacity in the Yukon’s screen media industry. Screen Production Yukon Association received over $620K to provide training, a new industry conference, a new studio space, and attract local productions. Shot in the Dark Productions received $25K to offer puppetry training for its children’s show.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-07-01 to 2024-07-05

  • The federal government is providing more than $13M to repair or build 274 affordable homes in the Yukon. Funded through the Affordable Housing Fund, the housing will help First Nations members as well as women and children who are fleeing violence.

    newswire.ca

  • The federal government is providing five $50K fellowships for post-doctoral candidates to do research in post-secondary institutions across the territories. Through the Polar Knowledge Canada Fellowship Program, the funding aims to improve understanding of northern ecosystems, connections between community health and environmental health, and advance sustainability in the North.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is providing $800K to seven Yukon tourism projects to boost the territory’s tourism sector. The money will go towards expanding infrastructure to accommodate overnight guests, transitioning to clean energy, and improving accessibility.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-06-24 to 2024-06-28

  • The Yukon Housing Corporation plans to build a new 45-unit building in downtown Whitehorse and is seeking a contractor. Construction is slated to start this summer with a completion goal of spring 2026. The new units will be rent-geared-to-income, providing more affordable housing options.

    yukon-news.com
• Week of 2024-06-17 to 2024-06-21

  • The Yukon government and Blood Ties Four Directions Centre are providing an expanded Healthy Meals program to help address food insecurity in downtown Whitehorse. Phases of facility upgrades will allow for expanded services in June and Fall 2024. Employment opportunities will be available for those accessing services.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-06-10 to 2024-06-14

  • The federal and Yukon governments are providing over $5.1M for a new sewage lift station in Watson, Yukon. The sewage lift station will support residential development for Watson Lake and the Liard First Nation.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government has paused foreign worker intake for Whitehorse-based businesses after surpassing the 430-nominee intake cap. The Yukon government has a backlog of applications that are still in processing. As of May, 590 applications had been submitted. Rural businesses may still apply for foreign worker nominees to meet their short-term labour needs.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Yukon government issued a request for proposal for construction of a new 45-unit multi-family building in Whitehorse. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2026.

    yukon.ca

  • The federal and Yukon governments are providing $7.5M and $2.5M respectively to upgrade water and sanitary sewer pipes in Haines Junction, Yukon. Over one kilometer of aging pipes and roads will be replaced over four kilometres of roads and alleys.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-05-27 to 2024-05-31

  • The Yukon is facing a veterinarian shortage, leading animal owners to overcome challenges without veterinary help. The closest veterinary to Haines Junction is in Whitehorse.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-05-13 to 2024-05-17

  • The federal government is providing $10.5M over four years to build more child-care spaces across the Yukon. Of the funding, $7.7M is allocated for 2025-2026. The Yukon government aims to build 110 new childcare spaces by 2026.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-05-06 to 2024-05-10

  • The Governments of Canada and Yukon announced joint funding of $3.5M to support further advancements in flood hazard mapping in Yukon over the next four years. The territorial government is planning to work on flood mapping for Old Crow, Dawson City and the Klondike Valley in 2024 and 2025.

    yahoo.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $45M to mitigate landslides on the Whitehorse Escarpment and Robert Service Way. Robert Service Way and the Millenium Trail will be moved further from the base of the escarpment and the slope will undergo enhanced stability measures such as regrading and removal of rocks and dirt.

    canada.ca

  • According to preliminary estimates from Statistics Canada, Yukon’s real GDP grew by 1.6% in 2023 – among the highest growth in the country. The estimate cites rising contribution from services, such as the public administration and healthcare sectors, as contributing to the increase while goods-producing industries, such as mining, saw a slight drop.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $341K to the Yukon Wood Products Association through CanNor. The funding will strengthen capacity, technical expertise and public awareness of the Yukon’s forest sector under the Yukon Forest Resources Capacity Support Initiative.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-04-29 to 2024-05-03

  • The Yukon government is providing $6.22M towards 78 affordable homes in Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson, Ibex Valley and Whitehorse. The Yukon government is also providing $20K to develop affordable housing concepts to meet housing needs in the territory.

    yukon.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse is building a 75-metre concrete wall along Robert Service Way to protect against possible landslides. The city has been closely monitoring the slope after landslides in 2022 and 2023 caused prolonged road closures. Work on the wall was expected to start on April 30, 2024.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of Yukon and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation have finished the construction of a new 10-unit housing complex in Old Crow. Three units are allocated to Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation staff and Citizens. The other seven units are allocated to Government of Yukon staff who work in the community.

    yukon.ca

  • The Little Gold Creek border crossing between the Yukon and Alaska will remain open for four extra weeks this summer, allowing for crossing during the May and September long weekends. The extended season will apply for future years as well.

    canada.ca

  • The Territorial Agrifood Association is opening a store in Yellowknife to sell food made, grown, or processed in the Northwest Territories. The store is expected to open by May 15 and includes a space for local experts to provide education on northern food production.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2024-04-22 to 2024-04-26

  • Casino Mining Corp. plans to allocate proceeds from a recent $40M financing towards permitting and engineering to advance the mining project in the Yukon. The financing came through issuing over 21B common shares. The Casino project is undergoing environmental assessment.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The federal government, Yukon government, Gwich’in Tribal Council and First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun are together exploring the feasibility of forming a new national park in the Peel Watershed. The new park would protect 3K square kilometers, co-developed and co-managed with the Gwich’in Tribal Council, First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun and Parks Canada.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing over $1.6M through the Community Development Fund towards 21 Yukon-based projects to promote tourism and local entertainment in communities across the territory. The Fund is particularly aimed at projects which focus on Indigenous programs, communities, and organizations.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-04-15 to 2024-04-19

  • The Yukon government has committed $75K of its capital budget and proposed an additional $120K transfer to the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation’s Gindèhchik House and Zheh Gwatsàl House. This year, $24K is slated for a bridge construction feasibility study and $13.5K towards designing a kitchen and dining facility.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The Yukon government is providing $14,605 to three community projects providing Yukon Francophonie Day events on May 14 and 15. The money is going to École Émilie-Tremblay, the Société d’histoire francophone du Yukon and Healthy Families, Healthy Babies. Yukon Francophonie Day events will take place in Whitehorse and Dawson City.

    yukon.ca

  • Doctors at the Whitehorse General Hospital have stopped taking patients for semi-urgent orthopedic surgery until further notice. As of January, 284 people were waitlisted and last year wait times were 18-24 months for elective surgeries. The aging population and lack of funding are reasons cited for the backlog.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government, Yukon Hospital Corp., and Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) are developing a memorandum of understanding to train and support healthcare workers. The memorandum will send CFHS workers to the Yukon for training and to boost Yukon’s healthcare workforce in April.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon Hospital Corporation ratified a new collective agreement with the Yukon Employees’ Union and the Public Service Alliance of Canada Local Y025. The agreement impacts a few hundred members of the unions including licensed practical nurses, administrative, custodial, food services, imaging, and lab staff.

    yukon-news.com

  • Sixty-seven Parsons Inc. employees joined the United Steelworkers union. Parsons Inc. is the contractor for remediating the Faro Mine site, formerly a lead-zinc mine in the Yukon.

    microsoft.com
• Week of 2024-04-08 to 2024-04-12

  • Na Cho Nyak Dun First Nation, the First Nation's development corporation, and Yukon University partnered to open a new community centre in Mayo, Yukon. The centre, Ihdzí', has space to host programs such as a sewing program, gatherings, local artist’s work, and meals.

    cbc.ca

  • The Whitehorse Star newspaper will cease publication on May 17 after 124 years. The owner of Whitehorse Star stated that the company is facing financial difficulties as clients have increasingly shifted advertising to social media outlets, making it more difficult to continue to operate. About 12 staff will be affected due to the closure.

    citynews.ca

  • Seabridge Gold Inc. conducted a feasibility study for the Courageous Lake Gold project located within the NWT's Slave Structural Province. The recent study reflects a mining operation with improved sustainability and profits compared to a study done in 2012. Seabridge is exploring plans to maximize potential value with a less capital-intensive design and smaller footprint.

    miningnewsnorth.com
• Week of 2024-04-01 to 2024-04-05

  • The federal government announced four new Housing Accelerator Fund agreements to build 110 homes in the Yukon over three years and boost construction for over 1,000 homes in 10 years. The federal government is providing over $2M to the Town of Watson Lake, over $1M to the City of Dawson, and over $2.3M to the Village of Carmacks to help eliminate barriers to building more housing in these communities.

    newswire.ca

  • The federal government is allocating more resources towards training and finances for early childhood education (ECE) workers this fiscal year. If the 2024-2025 budget is approved, the federal government will provide $10M to train ECE workers over two years nationally, $48M to forgive ECE student loans in rural and remote areas, and $1B in loans and grants to build and upgrade childcare provider spaces.

    whitehorsestar.com
• Week of 2024-03-25 to 2024-03-29

  • The Yukon government is developing a labour market strategy to address ongoing labour shortages across the territory. The government will begin public engagement with partners and stakeholders – including employers, First Nations governments, communities, and workers this March.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-03-18 to 2024-03-22

  • The Yukon government sold a vacant lot in Whitehorse for $1 to a local consortium, West End Development. West End Development aims to include around 300 residential units, daycares, and local businesses in its lot development. Construction may start this summer at the earliest.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government awarded Castle Rock Enterprises a construction contract to construct a 44-lot serviced residential subdivision in Haines Junction. Castle Rock Enterprises will oversee clearing of the land, install water and sanitary sewer mains, and support stormwater infrastructure. The construction on the lots has already begun in March and expected to be completed in July 2025.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-03-11 to 2024-03-15

  • The Yukon government reported that its Department of Health and Social Services filled 198 nursing positions since January 2023 including 145 registered nurses and 53 licenced practical nurses. The new recruitment has redued the 39% vacancy rate for primary health care nurses recorded on December 6, 2022.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The federal and Yukon governments entered three agreements totalling almost $86M over three to five years for health care access and service improvements in the Yukon. Expanding mental health and addictions services delivery and recruiting and retaining health workers are included in the agreements.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government is preparing for the 2024 wildfire season, starting with funding from the 2024-2025 territorial budget. This year, there will be 24 wildfire crews, 75 initial-attack firefighters, and 40 staff managing crews and aircraft across the territory.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government’s 2024-2025 budget includes increased funding for healthcare services and operations, education, and infrastructure projects. Included is an additional $4.4M to hire educational support staff and wellness professionals in schools. Yukon’s GDP is anticipated to grow 1.6% in 2024, while inflation is expected to decrease around 2%.

    yukon.ca

  • The federal government is providing $105,681 to two Whitehorse-based food businesses: Yukon Provisions and Sunrise Nutrition. The money will go towards expanding production, rebranding, and scaling up distribution to new markets with expectations to create employment opportunities.

    canada.ca

  • Metallic Minerals’ first resource estimate reports a significant silver resource. The company anticipates further drilling and significant resource expansion at its Keno silver project located in the Keno Hill district.

    canadianminingjournal.com
• Week of 2024-03-04 to 2024-03-08

  • A small business, Adventure Time, is starting its shuttle service this week from Haines Junction to Whitehorse three days per week. Adventure Time’s startup plan includes hiring locally and training youth based in Haines Junction.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government is building over 190 housing units over the next three years in Whitehorse, with a goal of providing over 3.9K homes over ten years. The federal government and the City of Whitehorse have an agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund, providing almost $11M to help cut red tape and fast track the construction process.

    newswire.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing $5M towards the 105-unit Winter Crossing housing project in Whitehorse. The Yukon Housing Corporation aims to build 250 new affordable homes by 2028, offering local job and procurement opportunities in the process.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing $2.4M over two years to the City of Whitehorse to implement a curbside recycling program. Funding is expected to offset half of the recycling collection costs and cover processing costs. The territory aims to implement Extended Producer Responsibility regulation in 2025, shifting the responsibility for non-recyclable materials from the consumer to the producer.

    yukon-news.com
• Week of 2024-02-26 to 2024-03-01

  • The Yukon and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in governments jointly conducted a damage assessment of the 2023 flooding at Ch'ëdähdëk Forty Mile Historic Site. Following the assessment, a Request for Proposals has been issued to design a conservation plan, explore building repair options, and seek input to mitigate possible future flooding.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government launched a new funding initiative, The Spark Tourism Micro-grant, to support tourism in the territory. Entrepreneurs seeking to offer visitor experience or services are eligible to apply for funding between $1K-$5K. Projects that could be scaled up or offer sustainable tourism will be prioritized.

    yukon.ca

  • The federal government is providing $1.8M to the Liard First Nation in the Yukon for revitalizing the Kaska language. The money will go towards educational and cultural initiatives such as online and community classes, summer camps, and professional development and language training.

    newswire.ca

  • The Yukon government issued a special warrant to authorize spending of up to $65.9M, with $40.9M allocated to Highways and Public Works and $25M earmarked for Health and Social Services. The warrant allows for continued spending while the supplementary budget is debated this spring.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing a total of $500K for school food programs across Yukon. From the funding, $450K will go towards Yukon schools or school boards based on enrolment numbers to supplement food programs. The Yukon First Nation Education Directorate will be allotted $50K to support food-related programs.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-02-19 to 2024-02-23

  • Hecla Mining Company released an update reporting increased in capital expenditures from 2022 to 2023, in part due to mine development and infrastructure projects at the Keno Hill Silver District in Yukon. Hecla expects production expenditures to be $15M-17M per quarter in 2024.

    hecla.com

  • The federal government pledged $3.65M to a new Yukon government program that aims to expedite accreditation for internationally educated health care professionals (IEHPs) to work in the territory. The Foreign Credential Recognition Program will support up to 150 IEHPs to join the health workforce. The program will target occupations in nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, and respiratory therapy fields.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government will soon take over responsibility of the Wolverine zinc mine from PricewaterhouseCoopers. The territorial government will close and remediate the site. Yukon Zinc Corp. last owned the mine and filed for bankruptcy in 2015. PricewaterhouseCoopers took over receivership but was unsuccessful in finding a buyer.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS) staff have increased from last year in Dawson, Yukon. This time last year, EMS staff were responding to ambulatory calls due to short staffing. In recent weeks, ambulances have been able to respond to requests and four new EMS staff have volunteered.

    whitehorsestar.com
• Week of 2024-02-05 to 2024-02-09

  • The Yukon government is implementing a Managed Alcohol Program (MAP) as part of its Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy. MAP has a projected budget of over $2M. The program will offer clinically structured care for those with severe alcohol dependency.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon Midwifery Program will resume on February 12, opening for applications for midwifery care. There are now two second birth attendants alongside the three midwives, allowing for greater care.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The Yukon government increased the honoraria for Emergency Medical Services community responders from $3.71 to $7.70 on January 1. The increase is an effort to improve recruitment and retention of community responders. There are about 90 to 120 responders in Yukon.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-01-29 to 2024-02-02

  • The Yukon government is raising the territory's minimum wage from $16.77 to $17.59, effective April 1. The 2023 Consumer Price Index for Whitehorse determined the 4.9% wage increase. The increase is an effort to support lowest-paid workers keep up with the cost of living.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is opening a warming centre from March 18 to May 1 this year in downtown Whitehorse at the Jim Smith Building. The centre will be staffed with two onsite workers and one outreach worker for community support and wellbeing.

    yukon.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse will conduct repairs on the Copper Haul Road in 2024, costing over $750K. This year, one large culvert will replace two culverts which overflowed from snow melt and washing out the road. The budget accounts for future upgrades planned until 2027.

    whitehorsestar.com
• Week of 2024-01-22 to 2024-01-26

  • The Yukon’s healthcare system and hospitals are under heightened pressure due to a shortage of physicians and insufficient resources. These issues result in longer wait times for patients and challenging working conditions for healthcare staff. In 2022, the overall average occupancy rate at the Whitehorse General Hospital was 96%.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government and City of Whitehorse are providing over $4.5M and about $2.47M, respectively, to upgrade the Canada Games Centre in Whitehorse. The pool area’s HVAC and insulation will be upgraded.

    newswire.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing $175,860 to nine community crime prevention projects for youth. Projects include cultural, mental health, anti-racism, gender-based, intersectional, sports and victim support programs.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-01-15 to 2024-01-19

  • The federal, Yukon, and municipal governments are providing a total of $14M towards transportation infrastructure in Whitehorse and Watson Lake. In Whitehorse, the Takhini River Bridge and the McIntyre Drive corridor in Kwanlin Dün First Nation will be upgraded. New streetlights will be installed along the Robert Campbell Highway in Watson Lake.

    canada.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing $77K to 18 community projects for youth and $447,203 to 20 community projects promoting economic, cultural, and social benefits. The projects will support initiatives in various communities across the territory such as youth leadership and skills development programs, substance use prevention and projects that will create economic benefit for the territory.

    yukon-news.com

  • The federal government has pledged over $186M and the Yukon government is providing $62M towards improving the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport. From these funds, $160.6M will go towards the contract with Flatiron Construction Company to replace the main runway.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2024-01-08 to 2024-01-12

  • The Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) has recommended against a road expansion to a TMM Goldcorp Inc. mine site in central Yukon. The proposed road could have adverse effects on caribou and other wildlife according to YESAB. The Yukon and federal governments will announce their final decision after reviewing YESAB’s report.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2023-12-18 to 2024-01-05

  • According to the Mining Industry Resources Council, women’s representation in the mining industry is far from reaching the Canadian minerals and metals plan’s goal set at 30%. Between 2015-2019, women going into engineering education decreased 33% and 22% in geology. Retaining women in mining has also been a challenge.

    canadianminingjournal.com

  • The federal government is providing over $900K to address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in the Yukon. Over $400K is allocated to the Liard Aboriginal Women’s Society and $500K is allocated to the Whitehorse Aboriginal Women’s Circle.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is providing over $1.1M to Whitehorse organizations addressing HIV, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. An additional $8.6M has been allocated to the HIV self-test initiative for 50 community-based organizations to distribute self-test kits.

    canada.ca

  • Yukon schools are experiencing shortages in teachers-on-call, with schools struggling to cover teacher absences. There are around 200 teachers-on-call in the territory, but only 40-50 are actually available on any given day to cover over 30 schools in the territory.

    cbc.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse allocated a $14M construction contract to Johnston Builders to add 16K square feet to the Whitehorse operations building. The expansion will allow space for 70 employees.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Yukon government announced an action plan to promote safety in downtown Whitehorse. The action items include decentralizing some support services, creating an alcohol residential program, extending the supervised consumption site hours and collaboration with the City of Whitehorse on plans.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government released 42 new climate strategy actions to be implemented by 2030. The actions address various areas including energy, transportation, buildings, and communities. The strategy supports the Yukon’s goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase access to reliable affordable and renewable energy, ensure climate change impact adaptation, and transition to a green economy.

    yukon.ca

  • Gladiator Metals announced positive assay results at the newly-found Cowley Park copper prospect located within its Whitehorse Copper Project. The company stated that the drill results are encouraging for its future clean energy transition initiatives. Gladiator has already committed $12M on the project.

    cbc.ca

  • Kwanlin Dün First Nation bought the $3.5M Sky High Wilderness Ranch near Fish Lake. The ranch is an established tourism business outside Whitehorse. The First Nation plans to introduce more Indigenous and cultural experiences for tourists.

    cbc.ca

  • A new walk-in clinic in Whitehorse opened December 18 ahead of schedule. The clinic was opened to help meet the health care demand. Residents without family doctors had been using the emergency room for such care.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government has developed a strategy to better retain and attract healthcare workers in the Yukon and is allocating $3.3M to implement the strategy over the next three years. Some of the action items include streamlining licensing, offering better financial incentives, and developing recruitment and retention strategies.

    cbc.ca

  • The City of Whitehorse approved its 2024 capital spending budget of about $17M with an additional $29.3M subject to the approval of outside funding. The spending will go towards several building upgrades and investments in the fire department. Significant cost increases in construction materials raised the projected costs of planned projects.

    yukon-news.com
• Week of 2023-12-11 to 2023-12-15

  • The Yukon Government’s education department aims to hire 12 school wellness specialists for Yukon schools this fiscal year, and more in future years. Positions may be temporary. Positions will be allocated to schools according to their needs.

    yukon-news.com

  • The City of Whitehorse is allocating $220K for snow and ice removal on parking spaces and other accessibility infrastructure as well as enforcing Whitehorse’s accessibility bylaws. An additional $30K will go towards a study on accessibility in the city.

    cbc.ca

  • Gladiator Metals discovered a new zone of copper mineralization at its Crowley Park prospect in Whitehorse. The discovery was made through 9 drill holes, part of an exploration project in the Whitehorse copper belt.

    canadianminingjournal.com

  • The Yukon government is providing an additional supplementary funding of $17.11M for the Yukon Hospital Corporation to address current service delays. The money will go towards reducing growth in wait times and service delays, particularly for surgeries and medical imaging services.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The Yukon government plans to conduct a study on the impacts of adding new energy into Yukon’s main power grid. This resulted in pausing a micro-generation rebate program until May 2024 at the earliest. Residents with renewable energy systems at home will be eligible for a rebate on surplus energy.

    cbc.ca

  • The Faro and Ross River RCMP detachment was at 60% capacity in fall 2023, and 40% in summer 2023. The two communities have been consistently understaffed in recent years. There is one permanent officer in Faro and two in Ross River, one new officer for each community is expected in 2024.

    yukon-news.com

  • Cantex Mine Development Corp. has received $1,419,990 by issuing flow through shares and non-flow through warrants. Some of that money will go towards the North Rackla Project in the Yukon.

    secureserver.net
• Week of 2023-12-04 to 2023-12-08

  • Glacier ice melt along a region shared by Yukon, BC, and Alaska, is uncovering land and rivers. New waterways may provide new habitats for Pacific Salmon which face habitat loss and are an important resource for First Nations. About half of future salmon habitat has high or medium mineral potential, presenting a tension between mining opportunities and ecological health.

    cbc.ca

  • The Council of Yukon First Nations, Yukon government, and federal government together signed a letter of intent to build a First Nations healing centre in Whitehorse. The centre is expected to help address substance use and homelessness issues with an Indigenous focus. The centre would house 20 long-term shelter beds and up to six temporary beds.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • CanNor is investing $88,736 for the Yukon NGO Hub Society to increase capacity in the non-government organization sector in Yukon. The funding will go towards providing governance and management training tools, guidance and mentoring supports for decision makers of non-government organizations.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is increasing Yukon’s 2023 allocation of newcomers by 150, for a new total of 580. The increased allocation allows the Yukon Nominee Program to approve more immigration applications in the territory to address labour needs that are unmet by the local workforce. The program allows approved newcomers to work in the territory with the aim of gaining permanent residency.

    yukon-news.com

  • Western Copper and Gold Corporation received a $6M investment from Rio Tinto Canada aimed to advance the Casino Project. Western Copper will use the investment for accelerating infrastructure development and regulatory processes for the project’s progression. Rio Tinto’s ownership of the project increased to 9.7% but Western is still the sole owner and operator.

    casinomining.com
• Week of 2023-11-27 to 2023-12-01

  • Hospitals in Whitehorse and Dawson have had to close operating rooms and delay services due to staffing shortages. Yukon Hospital Corporation currently has 56 job postings, about half for nurses and some for part-time or casual work. Nurses with international training are welcome.

    cbc.ca

  • Gladiator Metals received a class one exploration permit for up to 10K meters of drilling within Whitehorse around the Whitehorse Copper Belt. The project will include drilling at the Little, Middle and Arctic Chief mining areas.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2023-11-20 to 2023-11-24

  • Raven ReCentre is closing its drop-off recycling facility in Whitehorse at the end of this year. The City of Whitehorse is conducting a feasibility study on a curbside recycling program, anticipating the program to cost $2.2M per year and about $960K to purchase recycling containers.

    cbc.ca

  • Phyllis’ Restaurant and Lounge opened in Faro, Yukon, on November 20 as the town’s only restaurant.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government, Yukon University and Mitacs have partnered to promote innovation in Yukon and fill labour shortages in Yukon businesses by placing top students in paid internships. Besides students, Yukon hospitals, municipalities, and not-for-profits may benefit from this initiative.

    whitehorsestar.com

  • The Yukon government is seeking 10 new members for the Minister’s Advisory Council on Women and Gender Equity. The council is comprised of four-12 members who will advise on relevant policies, programs, and legislation.

    yukon.ca

  • The Government of Yukon announced a new funding of $9M over three years to support healing and wellness through traditional land-based practice projects. Administered by the Council of Yukon First Nations, the fund will be available to Yukon First Nations-led organizations and governments in December.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2023-11-13 to 2023-11-17

  • Yukon Energy estimates it may be unable to produce enough renewable power needed to reduce Yukon’s emissions by 45% by 2030. More projects are planned but progress is slow – some projects are delayed, presenting barriers to reducing emissions. Though, the Haeckel Hill wind turbines, electric vehicle efforts, and a program to reduce electricity demand are positive progress.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon government released its five-year innovation strategy to help new innovation, investment and to diversify Yukon’s economy. Along with 24 key actions to implement, the Yukon government aims to create jobs and investment opportunities for Yukon residents.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2023-11-06 to 2023-11-10

  • BMC Minerals announced it has completed a favourable economic review of its proposed ABM Mine exploration project located at the Kudz Ze Kayah property in Southeastern Yukon. The proposed mine is expected to produce zinc, sliver, lead, and copper over 10 years and could employ approximately 250 workers at peak production.

    miningnewsnorth.com

  • The Yukon government provided $515K to Castle Rock Enterprises to replace the 24-unit Ryder Apartment building in Whitehorse. The building will be replaced with a multi-unit building for Rent-Geared-to-Income residents. Demolition began on November 1.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2023-10-30 to 2023-11-03

  • The Council of Yukon First Nations is operating a new mobile initiative to reinforce safety in downtown Whitehorse. The Yukon government is providing about $300K for the program. The outreach team will have a vehicle to serve the public, providing referrals to support services.

    cyfn.ca

  • The Yukon government has amended the Environment Act to clarify definitions and responsibilities of the producer and steward in waste control. The changes allow for the private sector to enter waste collection and recovery. Implementation will be developed over the next two years, starting with regulations this winter.

    yukon-news.com

  • The Town of Faro has a shortage of mental health and social workers. The current mental health support worker is a social worker who travels to Faro from Whitehorse about twice per month. Rapid-access phone and video counselling services have been made available to try to fill the staffing gap.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2023-10-23 to 2023-10-27

  • The Yukon and federal governments are jointly providing $1.1M to plant 400K trees on public land. The initiative aims to place the right tree species to increase community and climate resiliency and restore wildlife habitats.

    newswire.ca

  • The Kluane First Nation built a new wind turbine on the shore of Kluane Lake which is expected to reduce diesel use by about 50%. The new wind turbine will begin to generate power for Burwash Landing residents in spring 2024. The Kluane First Nation is also working on biofuel and solar energy projects.

    cbc.ca

  • Air North and the Yukon government have partnered to renovate a new restaurant in the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport. The new restaurant is undergoing renovations and is set to open on February 1, 2024.

    yukon.ca

  • The Yukon government is providing additional funds to municipalities by increasing the Comprehensive Municipal Grant by 10.3% to $24.5M for 2024-25. Municipal resources and services and community programs and services are supported with the grant money. The unconditional funding will be transferred to municipalities on April 1, 2024.

    yukon.ca
• Week of 2023-10-16 to 2023-10-20

  • The federal government is providing $342,046 for 14 projects that support seniors in Yukon. The community-based projects will offer various supports such as financial and digital literacy training, social, physical, and artistic activities, and practical home supports.

    canada.ca

  • The City of Dawson is in the process of amending a zoning bylaw to permit microbreweries and distilleries to operate in Dawson. Last week the amendment passed the third reading unanimously.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2023-10-09 to 2023-10-13

  • Snowline Gold discovered significant gold deposits from its ongoing drill program at the Valley deposit. The drill program encompasses the Rogue, Einarson, Ursa and Cynthia projects along the Tombstone Gold Belt in Yukon, near the NWT border.

    northernminer.com

  • The federal government is providing $16.4M over four years towards implementing the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence in Yukon. The plan involves increasing violence prevention efforts, reaching at-risk populations, and stabilizing the gender-based violence prevention sector.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-10-02 to 2023-10-06

  • The Yukon government signed a total of $20.72M-worth of contracts to close and remediate the previous Minto mine site until May 2024. During the first phase, contractors will remove underground equipment and infrastructure before removing pumps to allow natural flooding, which is set to start in November.

    cbc.ca

  • The Yukon and federal governments are jointly providing $16M towards the water, sewer and road upgrades on Watson Lake. Over 1,200m of sanitary line and over 1,500m of water mains will be replaced and two kilometers of affected road will be restored with the funding.

    canada.ca