Statement from Premier Sandy Silver on Federal Budget 2021

Premier Sandy Silver has issued the following statement:

“We are pleased to see the Government of Canada’s 2021–2022 Budget aligns with Yukon’s priorities.

This federal budget will support our efforts to combat climate change, provide affordable childcare to Yukon families, and give certainty to Yukon businesses who continue to face difficult challenges from COVID-19.

Climate change threatens the safety and resilience of northern infrastructure, ecosystems, and traditional ways of life. To help Yukon adapt to the impacts of climate change, Budget 2021 proposes to provide $25 million in 2021–22 to the Government of Yukon to support its climate change priorities.

Budget 2021 also identifies more than $40 million dollars over three years for feasibility and planning of hydroelectric and grid connection projects that will provide clean energy for Canada’s North, including the Atlin Hydro Expansion Project.

Up to $27.2 billion over five years, starting in 2021–22 will make the federal government an equal partner in the share of childcare costs with provincial and territorial governments. This builds on our commitment to provide Yukon families with safe, supportive and affordable childcare options.

I am pleased to see that this budget recognizes the impacts of COVID-19 on Canada’s businesses including the tourism sector. Support packages worth $1 billion over three years will help Yukon businesses survive the pandemic and plan for even stronger recovery.

Yukon’s economy continues to grow despite COVID-19. Budget 2021 gives us the certainty we need to plan for recovery and we will continue to look for ways to ensure Yukoners and Yukon businesses are supported.”