LAW: Canada, Yukon, First Nations agree on Yukon environmental assessment legislation

WHITEHORSE – Following the first intergovernmental forum in nearly six years, representatives of the federal, Yukon and First Nations signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines mutually agreeable key steps towards addressing many of the First Nations’ concerns about recent changes to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act (YESAA). The government of Canada has agreed to begin the repeal process for four contentious amendments to the YESAA. Revised legislation will be drafted in collaboration with all key stakeholders. Other items discussed at the forum include fiscal matters, an update on the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and an update on the implementation of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The entire YESAA can be read at http://Laws-Lois.Justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/Y-2.2/.