I am writing with regard to the report in of the Multipurpose Army Cadet Facility which will be built in Whitehorse.
Speaker Laxton has been a strong advocate for the facility and a champion for cadets and veterans in the territory. I am however disappointed that the new Minister was not given the opportunity to make a more formal announcement of the project, which was approved prior to the election by his predecessor, Minister Jason Kenny, after a strong, united “Team Yukon” effort from the office of the premier, the commissioner, the Speaker, our former member of parliament and my office.
This multi-year facility offers a unique opportunity and has the potential for serving all three northern territories on a year-round basis.
It can also serve as a cornerstone for other initiatives in the territory and the region.
It is my hope that the new minister of national defence will move forward with establishing an army regiment in the territory and seek ways to engage our diverse population in the cadet and reserve programs, including military leadership programs that engage Yukon College and its students.
Finally, it is important to note that this success was a result of a “Team Yukon” approach which I have every confidence will continue in the years ahead.
Daniel Lang
Senator, Yukon