Premier Sandy Silver yesterday announced that the Government of Yukon is developing the Order of Yukon. He made the announcement at the Commissioner’s New Year’s Levee, which was Commissioner Doug Phillips’ final public event.
At present, Yukon has no award equal to those offered in other Canadian provinces and territories. The Order will give Yukoners the opportunity to nominate exceptional individuals for highest-level recognition.
The government expects to table an act to create the Order during the spring sitting. This will be the first step towards inducting members into the Order, which will be overseen by the Commissioner’s office.
A highlight during my term as Commissioner has been the opportunity to recognize the outstanding work of Yukoners whose volunteer work build our communities. Their dedication has inspired me to work with the Government of Yukon to create the Order of Yukon so that we may move towards having Yukoners recognized as part of the Canadian Honours System. I’m thrilled that the process is underway.
Commissioner Doug Phillips
We share this territory with remarkable people, many of whom do a great deal to contribute to the well-being of others and Yukon as a whole. I am delighted to support the Order of Yukon, which will give us a highest honour with which to recognize these individuals.
Although Commissioner Phillips will not have the opportunity to present the first Order, it would not be awarded without his efforts and influence. On behalf of all Yukoners, I’d like to express gratitude for his incredible career of public service and for his strong belief in the Order of Yukon.
Premier Sandy Silver
The Order will be the highest honour in Yukon. It will recognize individuals who make exceptional contributions to Yukon and recognizes excellence, achievement and contributions to the social, cultural and economic well-being of Yukoners.
The Government of Yukon conducted a survey in 2016 about the possibility of creating an Order of Yukon. Feedback from participants showed interest in the creation of an Order, as well as the need to include contributions to First Nations cultural and heritage endeavours.
Details about the Order of Yukon, including information about when it will be possible to submit nominations, will be announced by the next Commissioner.
Janine Workman
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7449
janine.workman@gov.yk.ca
Erin Loxam
Communications, Executive Council Office
867-667-8968
erin.loxam@gov.yk.ca