Justice Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee . Photo Courtesy of Macklen Linke/CKRW.
Whitehorse, YT -The future of the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter is at the centre of political debate as leaders discuss possible changes including adjusting the entry barriers to address growing safety concerns.
Currently operating with a low-barrier model, the shelter allows individuals under the influence to enter, though substance use is prohibited on-site.
Connective’s contract to run the shelter was extended for three months to allow time for collaboration with community partners on a long-term strategy. Health Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee expressed support for Connective’s expertise, while indicating the government is open to considering changes including to the shelter’s entry requirements.
“We’re certainly open to that conversation,” said Minister McPhee. “I think there’s definitely room for for full array of services, from low barrier, certainly to high barrier and to no drugs and alcohol being permitted.”
Yukon Party Leader Currie Dixon criticized the shelter’s “permissive” stance on drug and alcohol use, advocating for a higher-barrier model to address ongoing issues.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of a higher-barrier approach, Yukon NDP MLA Annie Blake raised concerns about excluding vulnerable individuals who may not meet the stricter criteria.
“If we’re looking at creating a higher barrier service, then what barriers are we putting in place to prevent people from accessing care,” said Blake. “If you want to create a higher barrier service, then what about the people who can’t meet that.”
