Statement from Minister McPhee on efforts to enhance community safety in the Yukon

Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:  

“The Government of Yukon is receiving nearly $4 million in new funding for 2023–28 under the federal Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence. Combined with $2.3 million provided from 2018–23, this brings the total to more than $6 million over 10 years to support various efforts by community organizations and law enforcement to combat gun violence and keep our communities safe.

“We are in the first year of the renewed five-year agreement term and this funding will continue to support our actions aimed at improving safety and wellbeing in communities across the territory.

“This funding is being used to prevent and disrupt violence experienced in Yukon communities by hiring and training additional enforcement personnel, improving information sharing, funding community-based prevention activities and increasing local awareness of gang-related issues.

“Through these funds, the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Unit has increased its investigation and analytical capacity. They have added three investigators and one crime prevention analyst to address the evolving nature of criminal activities reported in Yukon communities.

“The funding will also help support a variety of initiatives, including:

• a community safety and wellbeing plan for the City of Whitehorse;
• restorative justice healing circles;
• educational tools aimed at keeping youth safe from crime;
• a food security program for youth at risk;
• the establishment of an interagency table to support the Yukon’s most vulnerable clients who are at an elevated risk to offend; and
• other initiatives aimed at aftercare and support.

“Our government is working with the Government of Canada, First Nations governments, municipal governments, the RCMP and community partners to combat a spectrum of criminal activity.

“Along with work currently underway in support of the Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan and under the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, the initiatives funded under the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund are part of our commitment to community safety for all Yukoners.”