Last week, Premier Ranj Pillai traveled to Ross River and Carmacks to meet with local First Nations leaders to address ongoing issues, challenges and opportunities while fostering stronger partnerships for the future. The Premier visited Mayo on Sunday, May 28 to celebrate 30 years of self-government with First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun.
During his visit to Ross River, Premier Pillai had the opportunity to meet with the Ross River Dena Council and Chief Dylan Loblaw. Premier Pillai and Chief Loblaw discussed ways that the Government of Yukon can support the community of Ross River following the declaration of a state of emergency by the Ross River Dena Council band council on May 12, 2023. While this visit was planned prior to the emergency declaration, Premier Pillai welcomed the opportunity to listen to Chief Loblaw and the community and hear directly from them about the challenges that they face.
The Government of Yukon will continue to work with the community of Ross River and provide resources to support the search for Ramona Peter, and Premier Pillai promised to work with cabinet colleagues to advance the priorities raised in the discussion.
Premier Pillai also toured the Village of Carmacks with Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation (LSCFN) Chief Nicole Tom and spent time at some of the community’s fish camps. The productive discussions focused on continuing to work together on responding to the Substance Use Health Emergency and other shared priorities, such as traditional educational programming. Premier Pillai expressed his commitment to building a relationship founded on trust, respect and mutual understanding, ensuring that the voices and needs of the LSCFN are heard and prioritized.
At Galena Park in Mayo, Premier Pillai was pleased to join the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun for dinner and traditional performances to recognize 30 years of self-government and the completion of the sewing rediscovery program. The Premier will be returning to Mayo next month for a more formal meeting with the community.
Our government remains committed to fostering true partnership and working directly with First Nations communities, honouring their rights, respecting their knowledge, and ensuring their voices are valued and heard in decision-making processes. By forging stronger relationships, the government aims to pave the way for a brighter future that respects and upholds the rights and ambitions of all Yukoners for a strong, resilient Yukon where everyone can thrive.
Premier Ranj Pillai
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca