MP Zimmer Concludes Successful Listening Tour with Yukon Leaders

Whitehorse, YK – Bob Zimmer, Shadow Minister for Northern Affairs and Northern Economic Development Agency, concluded a successful listening tour in Whitehorse, Yukon. The trip was an opportunity for Mr. Zimmer to meet face-to-face with territorial, business and community leaders to learn more about Yukon’s current economy and to discuss future economic development in the territory.

“It was important to me to come to Whitehorse to learn more about the issues facing those living in Yukon,” said Mr. Zimmer. “Having lived most of my life in Northern British Columbia, I understand that there can often be a disconnect between the realities of those living in the North and the decisions being made in Ottawa. I wanted to see and hear first-hand the challenges and opportunities that Yukoners face when it comes to economic development.”

During the trip Mr. Zimmer met with Leader of the Official Opposition Stacey Hassard and MLA Scott Kent, members of Yukon Chamber of Mines and members of the Yukon First Nations Chamber of Commerce, as well as held an Economic Development Roundtable with members of the Yukon Chamber of Commerce.

“This listening tour was filled with frank and open discussions on a wide variety of topics including ways to effectively consult with First Nations going forward, the need to establish clear timelines for project approvals, the challenge of attracting workers and finding affordable housing, the territory’s vast untapped natural resources, unspent infrastructure money, and the potential for a deep water port,” said Mr. Zimmer.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to meet with me during this visit,” said Mr. Zimmer. “As I continue this listening tour with visits to the Northwest Territories and Nunavut in the coming months, I will keep standing up for northerners and pushing the Liberal government to take action on the issues that I hear about on the ground.”

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To view photos from the listening tour with MP Zimmer and Yukon Leaders please click here.