Yukon Premier Currie Dixon announces a pause on developing a new territory-wide health authority, with potential to abandon the project entirely.
Speaking after a meeting with First Nations governments, Dixon highlights concerns over transferring employee pensions to the new authority, estimating costs up to $70 million.
Administrative Overhaul Questioned
The previous Liberal government initiated plans for the authority, named Shäw Kwä̀än, in 2024 with First Nations backing. Dixon argues the reorganization involves excessive administrative changes.
“There’s a significant amount of administrative overhaul, and that money would be better invested in the front lines of our health-care system rather than reorganizing the Department of Health and Social Services into a new health authority,” Dixon states.
Shäw Kwä̀än stems from the 2020 Putting People First report on Yukon’s health-care system. The territory, alongside Nunavut, remains one of two Canadian jurisdictions without such an authority. Supporters claim it would address systemic racism and enhance outcomes for Indigenous patients. The authority already features a board and chair.
Unions criticized the setup process, claiming exclusion from discussions.
First Nations Express Disappointment
Grand Chief Math’ieya Alatini of the Council of Yukon First Nations voices strong dissatisfaction from chiefs.
“Disappointment was an understatement,” Alatini says. “When the premier shared views on repealing the legislation around the health authority, chiefs made it clear they support it. They believe health transformation requires the authority.”
Dixon recognizes the chiefs’ frustration but notes salvageable elements.
“The cultural safety and humility strategy, potential office of First Nations health, rural health-care recruitment and retention—all these can still proceed with First Nations,” he adds.
Next Steps for Health Reform
The government considers legislation to repeal Shäw Kwä̀än’s enabling law, delaying introduction until the fall session. Discussions on health-care reform will revert to the Health System Transformation Advisory Committee.
