On Air Now CHON Overnight Midnight - 7:00am

Now Playing Overnight schedule with hourly CP news-breaks CHON Overnight Programming

Listen Live

Yukon Government seeks to pause health authority implementation with legislative changes

Wednesday, 25 March 2026 14:59

By Panebi Wilson

Photo credits: Brad Cathers Facebook (Panebi WIlosn/Chon-FM news)

The CCOH calls the government's actions a "troubling level of government overreach" and demands transparency.

The Government of Yukon has tabled legislation to amend the Health Authority Act, aiming to pause the implementation of a health authority and determine the best path forward for the territory's health system with Yukon First Nations.
The proposed changes remove transition requirements, allowing the government to focus on frontline services, healthcare professional support, and facility improvements.

Minister of Health and Social Services Brad Cathers says the amendments provide clarity to prioritize patient care, workforce stability, and practical improvements. However, the Chiefs Committee on Health (CCOH) strongly condemns the government's decision, stating it opposes the position of Yukon First Nations and undermines the co-governance model built into the Act.

The proposed changes would give the Minister full control during the interim period, including the power to appoint or remove board members and issue broad directives with minimal oversight.
The CCOH calls the government's actions a "troubling level of government overreach" and demands transparency, meaningful engagement, and shared decision-making in any changes to the Health Authority Act. They urge Yukoners to express concern about the lack of Yukon First Nations' involvement in the decision-making process.

According to a media release, the government said it will continue to collaborate with Yukon First Nations and health system partners during the reassessment period, focusing on priorities like cultural safety and electronic health records.

More from CHON-FM Northern News

Yukon Government accepts responsibility for abuse at Jack Hulland Elementary

The Government accepts full responsibility for the harm caused and apologizes to the affected children and their families.
Whistle Bend road connector project gets $8.7M boost from federal government

The Whistle Bend Neighbourhood Active Transportation Connector project will receive over $8.7 million to build 5.5km of multi-use pathways and protected bike lanes, connecting downtown Whitehorse to Whistle Bend
Yukon Government signs deal with Alliance Health for primary care clinic

The clinic, located at 106 Lambert Street, will utilize the existing River Valley Medical Clinic space and serve approximately 2,000 new patients over the next two years.
Man Missing in Whitehorse: Reuben van Klaveren Sought by RCMP

He was last seen near the Millennium Trail in Whitehorse on March 31, 2026, wearing blue jeans, a winter jacket, and glasses.
Yukon Government passes health authority act amendment amidst first nations concerns

The amendment reflects the government's commitment to strengthening frontline healthcare and improving health outcomes, as promised in the 2025 election
Selkirk First Nation announces election results

Jeremy Harper was acclaimed as Chief and Rena Simon as Youth Councillor, effective February 10, 2026.
Carcross/Tagish First Nation cuts community safety services amid funding shortfall

The federal government's First Nations and Inuit Policing Program (FNIPP) funding will end on March 31, 2026.
Yukon First Nations Outraged Over Clean Energy Act Repeal

Repealing the Act without consultation ignores this partnership and undermines progress made
The Yukon Employees’ Union is weighing in on the Health Authority Act’s uncertain future

The YEU calls on the Yukon government to engage in honest, constructive discussions with health care workers and their representatives.
The Village of Haines Junction has announced the launch of a new grant program

The project has three separate streams: one to help developers build affordable rental units, one to help developers build new homes for sale, and one to help homeowners build new primary residences.
Yukon's air ambulance program gets upgrade

The new planes, equipped with advanced life support equipment
Kwanlin Dün First Nation swears in new leadership team led by Chief Sean Smith

Sean Smith has been re-elected as Chief for a second term, alongside six Councillors
KDFN re-elect's Chief Sean Smith

Chief Sean Smith was re-elected to his position.
Teslin RCMP arrest two following search warrant

Matthew Levi Hamilton, 39, is facing seven charges, including pointing a firearm and discharging a firearm with intent.
CYFN's Moccasin Mobile Outreach Program receives national recognition for harm reduction efforts

The award acknowledges the program's dedication to providing essential services, including warm clothing, meals, and cultural support, to those in need.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 25th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson brings a ringside look at the intense training happening in Whitehorse as wrestlers gear up for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 18th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson here, catching up with some of the talented hockey players gearing up for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.
Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and Yukon Government partner on Dawson land planning initiative

The plan will cover Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Settlement Land parcels C-13B and C-87FS, and adjoining Government of Yukon-owned land.
Winter Games Wednesday with Nancy Thompson - Wednesday 11th February (Audio)

Audio

Nancy Thompson is catching up with some passionate athletes gearing up for the Dene Games
Yukon University strike averted as union reaches tentative agreement

The union announced the news, stating that workers deserve a fair and equitable contract.