Yukon Premier-Designate Promises Swift Action for Mining Boom

UPDATE: Yukon’s premier-designate, Currie Dixon, has just confirmed his government will “hit the ground running” to capitalize on what he describes as a “tremendous opportunity” for the territory’s mining sector. Speaking at the Yukon Geoscience Forum in Whitehorse this week, Dixon outlined urgent plans to address critical challenges facing the industry.

Dixon emphasized the need for immediate improvements in energy capacity and permitting processes, stating, “Any time we can expand the grid, I’m in favour of that.” He pointed to the potential for growth in areas like Faro, Dawson, and Minto, highlighting the current insufficiencies in the Yukon’s power grid. Disruptions at Hecla’s Keno operation serve as a stark reminder of these challenges. “I can’t remember how many times they got bumped off last year,” Dixon declared, calling the situation “unacceptable.”

The urgency of Dixon’s message stems from increasing pressures on the isolated Yukon grid. The premier-designate acknowledged that past investments in generation capacity have failed to keep pace with demand. His remarks come in the wake of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement regarding the long-term goal of connecting the B.C.-Yukon power grid, but he cautioned that this project remains years away.

The mining community has expressed growing frustration over delays in obtaining necessary permits from the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) and the Yukon Water Board. Chamber of Mines president Allan Nixon warned that uncertainty in the permitting process makes it nearly impossible for operators to plan effectively. “It’s entirely different to expect four years and still be in the process a decade later,” he remarked, underscoring the human impact of these bureaucratic delays.

Dixon, who will be sworn in this weekend, stressed that collaboration with the federal government and First Nations is essential for progress. However, he also identified quicker wins for the industry. “We need sufficient staffing capacity to meet our obligations,” he stated, indicating that the government is prepared to take immediate steps to facilitate mining operations.

Infrastructure improvements are another critical focus. Nixon highlighted the need for enhanced highways and access to ports, particularly Skagway, Alaska. Dixon pointed out that the port has historically been vital for transporting ore but has recently imposed restrictions that hinder Yukon’s export capabilities. “I think there should be a conversation at the Canada-United States level,” he said, advocating for a review of Skagway’s ordinances that limit Yukon’s access to markets.

The previous Yukon Liberal government allocated over $900,000 for improvements to Skagway’s port, yet Dixon noted that much of the federal funding from the Resource Gateway project remains unspent. He urged for action: “We need to get that funding out the door.”

As the mining industry braces for a pivotal season, Dixon reassured stakeholders that changes to mining legislation are on the horizon. He stated, “We’d love to be paying more taxes and royalties if it means we can build more mines,” reflecting a commitment to fostering a robust private sector.

Dixon’s overarching message is clear: “We need to unleash the mining industry.” The incoming premier expressed determination to act swiftly, stating, “There’s a tremendous opportunity before us, and it’s up to us to decide whether and how we’re going to grab on to that.”

As Yukon prepares for this new chapter, stakeholders are eager to see how Dixon’s administration will tackle these pressing challenges. The mining community awaits immediate actions that could redefine the territory’s economic landscape.