Tariffs: $1.5M to Support Yukon Workers
The federal and territorial governments are injecting $1.5 million over three years to help the Yukon workforce adapt to global trade tensions. This funding specifically targets the mining, transportation, and construction sectors.
Formally named the “Canada-Yukon Labour Tariff Response,” the agreement was made official Monday in Whitehorse by federal Minister Patty Hajdu and territorial Minister Jen Gehmair.
The objective is to support approximately 200 workers in the territory whose jobs are threatened or transformed by the imposition of international tariffs and market instability.
Targeting Key Northern Sectors
The funds will be used to finance retraining and upskilling for:
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Laid-off workers seeking to transition into high-demand sectors;
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Employees of companies utilizing the “Work-Sharing” program;
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Workers in industries directly affected by tariffs or those dependent on disrupted supply chains.
The Yukon workforce is rising to the occasion as the importance of the North becomes central to our economic independence, stated Yukon Economic Development Minister Jen Gehmair.
The services will be deployed through the Yukon’s existing employment and training network.
Brendan Hanley, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs, emphasized that this collaboration with unions and industry aims to prepare workers for “opportunities that will arise in priority sectors,” despite an uncertain global context.
In March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Yukon stood at 3.9%.
This new investment is in addition to the $6 million already provided annually by Ottawa to the territory for workforce development.
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Inuit women’s org urges federal leaders to address housing, costs, and violence, CBC News
Greenland: Greenland’s new parliament convenes for first time amid Trump pressure, Thomson Reuters
Denmark: Analysis-Denmark sets a military tripwire. It’s a message to Trump more than Russia or China, CBC News
Finland: Finland preparing to send two liaison officers to Greenland, Yle News
