Ottawa Announces $7 Million for Essential Air Access to Yukon
November 9, 2020 ctn_admin
The COVID-19 pandemic is having a significant impact on remote communities that depend on small air carriers for essential goods, services, and for access in and out of the community. As the pandemic continues to evolve, the Government of Canada is working with partners, including provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous partners, and the air industry to address the unique needs of these communities.
Today, the Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau, the Minister of Northern Affairs, Daniel Vandal, and the Minister of Highways and Public Works for the Government of Yukon, Richard Mostyn, announced a new agreement with the Government of Yukon to support essential air access to remote communities.
The Government of Canada is contributing up to $7 million to ensure continuity of service for at least six months and up to 18 months if necessary. The Government of Yukon is also extending fee waivers totalling up to $234,000, through to the end of March 2021.
Under this agreement, the Government of Yukon will determine minimum levels of essential services to remote communities, and allocate funding to air operators to ensure the continued supply of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods and services to these communities.
“While we continue to work together to limit the spread of COVID-19, we must also ensure remote communities continue to have the air connectivity they need for essential goods and services, travel and business,” said Garneau. “Our agreement with the Government of Yukon will allow for reliable air services to keep remote communities in the Yukon connected to the rest of the country.”
That’s great news for folks in Whitehorse, Dawson City and other Yukon communities who desperately need air service on a regular basis.
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