Joint news release with the Government of Canada.
Today, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency) and Member of Parliament for Yukon Larry Bagnell on behalf of Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Catherine McKenna, along with Minister of Highways and Public Works Richard Mostyn, confirmed funding for the Yukon Resource Gateway Program.
The over $359 million contribution agreement will allow the Government of Yukon to restore and renew existing infrastructure, as well as develop new infrastructure where needed in the Dawson and Nahanni ranges. This work includes upgrades to more than 650 kilometres of road and infrastructure throughout the region. These improvements will help bring greater opportunities to Yukon’s communities and support ongoing economic growth throughout the territory.
The contribution follows the successful completion of six project agreements to date with Yukon First Nations for components under the Yukon Resource Gateway Program. Each of the project agreements identifies training, employment and business opportunities for First Nations citizens and businesses to ensure communities benefit from these infrastructure upgrades.
Today’s announcement is very exciting for the people of the Yukon. Investments in transportation infrastructure across the territory is vital to ensuring long-term economic development and growth. The Yukon Resource Gateway Project will support major natural resource development and export opportunities, and help create jobs.
This contribution agreement ensures the Government of Yukon has the flexibility to pursue projects that the First Nations and communities support and ensure the Yukon Resource Gateway Program maximizes positive impacts for Yukoners and the territory’s economy.
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The contribution agreement with Canada has a federal investment of over $247 million. The Government of Yukon is investing an additional $112 million.
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Six Project Agreements have been signed with Yukon First Nations to support seven components within the Yukon Resource Gateway Program, including construction of the Carmacks Bypass and upgrades to the Robert Campbell Highway, Nahanni Range Road, North Canol Road, Freegold Road and the Silver Trail.
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In February, the Government of Yukon and Liard First Nation (LFN) signed a job training agreement. Through a combination of coursework, simulators and hands-on training, students will gain the skills needed for meaningful employment in a range of road maintenance and construction projects, which will directly apply to various components of the Yukon Resource Gateway Program.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Oshea Jephson
Communications, Highways and Public Works
867-332-3568
oshea.jephson@yukon.ca