Statement from Premier Pillai on First Ministers’ Meeting in Saskatchewan

Press Release

Jun 4, 2025

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“This week, I had the honour of joining fellow Premiers and Prime Minister Mark Carney at the First Ministers’ Meeting in Saskatoon. Thanks to Premier of Saskatchewan Scott Moe for the warm hospitality during a difficult time for many in the West – those displaced by wildfires were top of mind throughout discussions. The Yukon is glad to be able to provide support to help affected communities.

“First Ministers focused on strengthening Canada’s economy, advancing major nation-building projects and removing trade barriers. I emphasized the importance of the Yukon grid connection to the national electricity system – a transformative step for northern energy security and economic growth. Arctic sovereignty and long-standing calls from northern Premiers for investment in critical infrastructure were front and centre.

“Public safety was also a key issue. First Ministers agreed on the urgent need for bail reform, better support for law enforcement and reducing delays in the justice system.

“The meeting built on federal engagement in Ottawa the week before. While there, I had the privilege of witnessing in the Speech from the Throne, delivered by His Majesty King Charles III, and met with Cabinet Ministers to advance priorities in Arctic security, infrastructure, energy and Indigenous partnerships.

“I also had the chance to take part in the Canadian Club of Ottawa’s Arctic: Four Leaders, Four Perspectives event and attended CANSEC – Canada’s largest defence and security trade show – to highlight the North’s growing role in national security and sovereignty.

“Northern voices must continue to shape national decisions. I look forward to seeing the next steps from the federal government in response to these important discussions.”

Quick facts

• Premier Pillai met with the following federal Ministers while in Ottawa from May 27 to 30:
  • Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Rebecca Alty;
  • Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Sean Fraser;
  • Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Chrystia Freeland;
  • Minister of Finance and National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne;
  • Minister of Environment and Climate Change Julie Dabrusin;
  • Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson;
  • Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions Mélanie Joly; and
  • Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada Gregor Robertson.

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

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