WHITEHORSE – Last week the Yukon News discovered that the Liberals’ new Housing First project remains closed over two months after its supposed “opening”.
The Liberals claimed the building was “open” in November 2019, but as of February 2020 the department has confirmed that the building is still unoccupied due to issues with the security system and lack of staffing.
“The Minister has completely mismanaged this project and it is now significantly over budget and delayed,” stated Stacey Hassard, Leader of the Official Opposition. “The fact that the building has been sitting empty for over two months since the Minister claimed it was open shows she has little regard for her timelines, taxpayers’ money, or the important services this facility will provide Yukoners.”
“Further, that she is refusing to respond to media requests once again demonstrates she either does not take her responsibilities seriously or is overwhelmed and has too much on her plate,” added Hassard. “The Minister needs to clarify whether she knew about these alleged issues when she announced the opening in November, and be clear with Yukon taxpayers on what the final cost of this project will be.”
Background:
- In November 2017, the project was announced with a budget of $2.7 million and a completion date of June 30, 2019.
- The final construction costs for the project came it at $4.1 million which increases to $4.3 million once you include design costs.
- In November 2019, the Liberal government claimed the building was officially open and that residents would be moved in by the end of November.
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Contact:
Madison Pearson
Communications
(867) 393-7026