FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 13, 2023
“The Yukon Party Official Opposition urges the Government of Yukon to support the unanimous vote by Whitehorse City Council on July 10, 2023, to host the 2026 Arctic Winter Games. The Yukon is a proven host in the past and the majority of the required infrastructure already exists in the city.
“It is important that the Liberal government supports the Games bid and allows the Host Society and the City to lead the efforts. That support must include measures like maximizing in-kind contributions to offset Games costs, opening up applications for Host Society board of director positions, and allowing the Host Society and City to operate as the lead decision-makers over the Games. The Government must also commit to respect Whitehorse's request that all of the funds provided to the games are new money and not taken away from other municipal priorities.
“This government has shown a tendency to act without consultation and blame partners. Last December, the territorial Liberal Cabinet unilaterally cancelled the 2027 Canada Winter Games bid, without working in partnership with the City of Whitehorse.
“After these recent disappointments, Yukon athletes are ready to celebrate and compete in front of friends and family on their home fields, courts, and trails. We believe the demonstrated support from sports organizations, the business community, and the City of Whitehorse during the recent vote shows that the 2026 Arctic Winter Games will provide a great chance to make that happen.”
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Contact:
Tim Kucharuk
Press Secretary
(867) 393-7026