Government of Yukon
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FOR RELEASE #08-101
May 1, 2008
Neighbourly Visit Accomplishes Initial Steps to Port Development
WHITEHORSE – Economic Development Minister Jim Kenyon welcomed Skagway Mayor Tom Cochran to Whitehorse yesterday. Cochran was visiting Whitehorse with the municipal manager, Alan Sorum and consultants from CH2MHill to talk about the Port Development Study they have recently commissioned.
“Having affordable port access is key to a sustainable economic future in Yukon,” Kenyon said. “I am happy to see Skagway taking such a keen interest in the needs of Yukon-based businesses.
The Borough of Skagway has recently hired CH2MHill to begin a development strategy and a business case study for their port. They are visiting Whitehorse to gain a better understanding of Yukon business needs in terms of port access and diversification.
“A vibrant, diverse port is important to Skagway’s economy,” Cochran said. “We want to get input from Yukon businesses because they will be key users of our port and it is important to be sure our port meets their needs.”
The Skagway contingent met with Kenyon and Energy, Mines and Resources Minister Archie Lang. While in Whitehorse, they also met with the Whitehorse Mayor Bev Buckway and attended an evening reception and information session with local businesses and Chambers of Commerce.
Ports access is one of the elements of the Yukon government’s broader infrastructure strategy. This strategy fosters sustainable economic development while integrating the needs of business. Improving national and international transportation and trade links will lead to more business opportunities and jobs for Yukoners.
“Our industry partners indicated that the success of their projects is partially dependant on having port access,” Kenyon added. “The Yukon government sees maintaining port access as a priority, and I look forward to further discussions with Skagway around this and other economic opportunities we share.”
For more information about the Port of Skagway Steering Committee, visit
www.yukonportofskagway.com.
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| Contact: | |
| Roxanne Vallevand Cabinet Communications Advisor (867) 633-7949 roxanne.vallevand@gov.yk.ca |
Sunny Patch Communications Analyst (867) 456-3913 sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca |