Bargaining Update #3 February 9, 2026

Health Authority Announcement

Dear Members,

By now you will have received an ecast from the Employer on the recent government decision to pause the implementation of the Health Authority Shäw Kwä’ą (Health and Wellness Yukon).

The decision to postpone and possibly repeal the legislation this coming fall only serves to extend uncertainty for members, Yukon First Nations, and Yukoners in general.

The Health Authority is a government project that is rooted in Putting People First, which was published in 2019. Given the years of investment in building a Health Authority, we believe this may be simply a tactical move, as the announcement signals a delay, not a stop.

The Union team remains committed to active reconciliation and acknowledges the extensive work and time put forward by Yukon First Nations. We also recognize the distress this indecision may cause for those representatives who have already been actively involved in this project for years.

How will this affect bargaining?

While overdue, upgrading facilities and buildings cannot replace the critical need for adequate staffing, or a systemic commitment to culturally appropriate healthcare or competitive wages that reflect the value of your work.

We, like you, don’t have enough information to make an informed conclusion about the recent government announcement.

Deciding to pause a decision on the health authority isn’t the same as cancelling it.

Securing a solid commitment from the Employer on Health Authority protections remains a central priority for members and we will be pursuing that at our next bargaining session whenever it is scheduled.

You will recall from our last bulletin; the Hospital team was reluctant to progress further on negotiations until YG bargaining was completed given the hospital’s financial mandate will come from government. We will again contact the Employer for dates and will keep you informed.

In solidarity your bargaining team,

Darlene, Laura, Leah, Val, Erna and Ted.

Questions about bargaining? Drop us a line - [email protected]