WHEN WILL VACANCIES ON YDC/YEC BOARDS BE FILLED?
The Yukon Development and Energy corporations have been without a full slate of directors since June, and it is high time the Yukon government took steps to correct this situation, says NDP leader Todd Hardy.
"Considering the many complex issues these corporations are dealing with on a daily basis, including multimillion-dollar infrastructure upgrades, rate review applications and public consultations on independent power production and net metering, it is more important than ever there be close public oversight and scrutiny of the work they are doing and the money they are spending," Hardy adds.
"These vacancies also need to be filled immediately because the decisions these boards make will have far-reaching and long-lasting consequences for ratepayers and taxpayers alike."
However, Hardy says it is important the Yukon legislature’s Standing Committee on Appointments to Major Boards and Committees be involved in the selection process to ensure the people who ultimately do get appointed represent a broad cross-section of interests and backgrounds and will work for the common good.
"The members of this legislative committee are scheduled to meet this month but I do not believe that filling the vacancies on the YDC/YEC is on the agenda at this time," Hardy concludes. "This concerns me.
"So I urge the government to make it a priority to fill these vacancies as soon as possible. However, I also urge anyone who is interested in energy matters to put their names forward so these important boards can continue to function efficiently and effectively in the public interest."