The Government of Yukon is announcing changes to the prescribed Oath of Allegiance for municipal elected officials.
The revised oath offers elected local government officials the opportunity to swear or affirm their allegiance to either the laws and the Constitution of Canada, or the Crown. Before the change, elected municipal officials were required to make an Oath of Allegiance to the Crown.
This decision does not require a change to legislation and allows elected municipal officials to take the Oath of Allegiance in a way that better aligns with their values and cultural identities.
I am glad our government is modernizing laws so that everyone can feel welcome and respected in the Yukon, especially Yukon First Nations. This is a step on the journey towards reconciliation. We appreciate the municipal councilors who have spoken so thoughtfully on this issue. This amendment allows everyone to honour the principles of democratic governance in a way that resonates personally and meaningfully.
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Under the Municipal Act, if a councillor-elect does not make the two required oaths within 40 days of being acclaimed, their seat is considered null and void and a byelection would be called.
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The deadline for municipal councils to take the prescribed oaths is December 9.
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Municipal elections were held on October 17, 2024, and elections were officially proclaimed on October 21.
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The Constitution of Canada is the supreme law in the country, outlining Canada’s system of government and the civil and human rights of citizens and non-citizens.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
John Tonin
Communications, Community Services
867-334-5816
[email protected]