The Yukon government and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation are signing off on a 10-year agreement that holds the promise of better things.
On Saturday, Chief Pauline Frost and Premier Ranj Pillai met in Old Crow to sign a government-to-government accord on shared priorities.
Those priorities weren’t specifically spelled out in the announcement the government made Monday.
The release suggests “government-to-government accords provide a practical way for governments to formalize existing and identify new collaborative initiatives to improve programs and services for citizens. This approach of signing an accord intends to promote relationship-building through collaboration and reconciliation between the governments at the operational level.”
Frost said “this 10-year accord presents a challenge to the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation and the Government of Yukon. It calls on us to co-ordinate our efforts so that we can bring practical and long-term benefits to each and every member of our community.
“This accord affirms that over the next decade, working toward community wellness — for individuals, families, and the whole community — will remain at the centre of the work of our government.”
Other priorities, such as community development, education and training, are connected to community wellness, Frost added.
“The next step will be to work together on a concrete Action Plan that will organize our efforts and help us ensure success,” she added.
Pillai stated “one of our government’s overarching priorities is to strengthen relationships and work respectfully with First Nations and focus our efforts to see true reconciliation upheld in our work.
“This government-to-government accord builds on the foundation of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Final and Self-Government Agreements and outlines our shared path forward on addressing community needs and priorities.
“We look forward to working with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation to bring tangible benefits to Vuntut Gwitchin citizens and all who live in Old Crow,” the premier added.
Under this accord, the premier and the chief will meet at least annually to discuss its progress.
