Statement from Premier Pillai and Premier-designate Pemberton on the Council of Yukon First Nations election

Premier Ranj Pillai and Premier-designate Mike Pemberton have issued the following statement:

“On behalf of the Government of Yukon, we offer our sincere congratulations to Math’ieya Alatini on being elected as Grand Chief of the Council of Yukon First Nations.

“Grand Chief Alatini is a capable and experienced leader who previously served two terms as the Kluane First Nation Chief. She brings a wide breadth of experience and knowledge from her past work in the public, academic and private sectors. We look forward to rekindling our relationship and continued collaboration on shared priorities.

“We commend outgoing Grand Chief Peter Johnston for his life-long commitment and service to Yukon First Nations Peoples. Since 2016, Grand Chief Johnston advocated and pushed for systematic changes that protect and advance Yukon First Nations rights and interests, revitalize and strengthen language, cultures and traditions, foster economic sustainability and support Yukon First Nations to heal and thrive.

“Over his three terms, Grand Chief Johnston oversaw key milestones and initiatives in partnership with the Government of Yukon on a wide range of topics from education and health to justice and economic development.

“A few highlights include: establishing the First Nation School Board, launching the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, creating the Yukon’s new health authority – Health and Wellness Yukon/Santé et mieux-être Yukon/Shäw Kwä’a, fully implementing Growing Together: The Yukon First Nations Procurement Policy and establishing programs such as Towards Reconciliation in Justice at Yukon’s Law Courts, the Yukon First Nations cultural programming at the Whitehorse Correctional Centre and the Cultural Connections Project for Indigenous children in out-of-home care.

“We would be remiss if we did not acknowledge other critical points during his leadership, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the first ground searches at former residential school sites in the Yukon and the celebrations of both the 45th and 50th anniversaries of Together Today for Our Children Tomorrow.

“While it is difficult to summarize accomplishments over nine years, Grand Chief Johnston’s contributions and legacy will resonate for years to come.

“As we turn to the future, the Government of Yukon remains committed to working with Grand Chief Alatini to build on our strong partnership and continue our collaboration in making meaningful changes that improve the lives of all Yukoners.”