Statement from Premier Pillai on meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“Yesterday, I met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss the Yukon’s priorities and unique needs within Canada. This was a productive meeting that highlighted the innovation our territory is driving forward and brought the voices of Yukoners to the national stage.

“Our discussions focused on the importance of Indigenous reconciliation, opportunities to promote local economic growth, and the value of the Yukon-Alaska partnership within the broader Canada-U.S. relationship. Highlighting the challenges Yukoners face, we discussed the need for ongoing federal investments in the Yukon’s health care system and clean energy infrastructure, as well as the importance of ongoing work towards historical and abandoned mine site reclamation and remediation.

“I am pleased that the federal government recently announced its intention to invest in security and defence infrastructure in our territory, and look forward to future investments that will keep the North – and northerners – safe and secure in an evolving geopolitical environment. The establishment of the Canadian Institute for Arctic Security in the Yukon and a naval reserve unit in Whitehorse shows the federal government’s commitment to Arctic security. It also sets the stage for investments in dual-use infrastructure that will benefit Yukon communities and creates educational and training opportunities for Yukoners.

“As we move forward with Yukon Days, I remain committed to advocating for Yukoners’ priorities and ensuring we are involved in shaping decisions that matter to the North. I am proud to be representing the Yukon in Ottawa this week, alongside Yukon First Nations leaders, territorial ministers, and Members of Legislative Assembly, to discuss the issues that matter to Yukoners.  

"I thank the Prime Minister for his time and look forward to seeing the North continue to collaborate with our federal counterparts as we work to improve the lives of all Yukoners and Canadians.”