Statement from the Health Human Resources Steering Committee co-chairs regarding the union’s decision to withdraw from the committee

Deputy Minister of the Department of Health and Social Services Matt King and CEO of the Yukon Hospital Corporation Jason Bilsky have issued the following statement:

“Today, leaders from the Yukon Employees' Union and the Professional Institute of Public Service of Canada informed Yukon’s Health Human Resources Steering Committee that they would be withdrawing from the committee.

“As co-chairs, we are disappointed by their decision to step away as we view these unions as essential in shaping solutions for the health care workforce. We believe our health workforce challenges will be best addressed from a broad diversity of participants.

“From the outset, our goal has been to include a range of representation including the Yukon Medical Association, the Yukon Medical Council, the Yukon Registered Nurses Association, Yukon University, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, unions and others to develop integrated solutions to meet the territory’s health human resource challenges.

“Committee members confirmed today that they remain united and committed to moving forward to achieve the goals of the Health Human Resource Strategy. We also confirmed that the door remains open for continued dialogue with union leaders and plan to meet with them again in the near future to discuss their committee-related concerns.

“We firmly believe we are stronger when we bring together diverse voices and experiences from across the health care system. The steering committee remains dedicated to finding long-term, effective and sustainable solutions for the Yukon's health care system and all who provide and receive these essential services.”