Whitehorse: As the spring legislative Sitting draws to a close, Liberal MLAs Darius Elias and Sandy Silver have identified several key constituent successes.
“As a new MLA, I appreciate the opportunity to work with other levels of government, and representatives from all parties, on behalf of Klondike,” said Sandy Silver. “Many individuals and groups in Dawson City keep me informed about community concerns, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with the government on several issues important to my constituents.”
On March 28th, Mr. Silver gathered support from all members of the Legislative Assembly for enhanced trades and technology training to position Yukoners for well-paying, skilled jobs close to their home communities.
“Drawing on my past experiences as an educator, I understand not only the need for trades and technology programs, but also the resources available, including the students themselves,” said Silver. “Our disappointing attendance and graduation rates make it clear that we are missing opportunities to provide engaging, relevant educational experiences for our young people.”
Darius Elias, MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin, continued to draw territorial, national, and international attention to problems under the new Nutrition North program. Food shipping costs to Old Crow have up to doubled under the new program, which replaced Food Mail.
In February, five northern representatives, including Elias, jointly brought their constituents’ concerns to the federal government. In March, all members of the Yukon Legislative Assembly supported Elias’ motion urging the Government of Canada to make Nutrition North work for Old Crow. Most recently, Elias was invited by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food to make a submission regarding his community’s food challenges.
“After the Special Rapporteur completes his mission, he will deliver policy recommendations to the Government of Canada,” added Elias. “Healthy communities require healthy, affordable food and I’m pleased Old Crow’s concerns will be brought forward again at the national level.”
While Whistleblower legislation has been stalled for many years, the Liberals were able to broker deadline for an all-party committee to return its results. Now, the Select Committee on Whistleblower Legislation must report its findings by fall 2012. Should the committee fail to do so, the Chair must table an interim report and a revised delivery date for the final report.
“Government employees shouldn’t have to choose between doing the right thing at work and keeping their jobs,” said Liberal committee member Sandy Silver. “We’re pleased to be moving forward on whistleblower protection and that Yukoners now have a deadline to hold their representatives accountable to.”
For additional information contact:
Shay Kokiw 667-8942
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