Commissioner of Yukon

Learn about the Commissioner’s role and read the current news.

The Commissioner’s role

The Commissioner is appointed by the Government of Canada and is the Yukon’s Head of State. They are an important figure in the legislature and the Government of Yukon.

The Commissioner is responsible for:

ensuring that the Yukon has a Premier in the case of resignation or death or if the government resigns following a defeat in the legislature or in an election;
ensuring continuity of government and maintaining democratic freedoms;
swearing-in Members of the Yukon Legislative Assembly;
delivering the Speech from the Throne at the opening of each legislative session;
summoning, proroguing and dissolving the legislature;
providing assent to bills passed by the Yukon Legislative Assembly, enabling them to become law;
signing Orders-in-Council, Commissioner’s warrants, statutory appointments and dispositions of Commissioner’s lands on the advice of Cabinet; and
representing the interests of the Yukon’s people by attending official functions, community and social events and handing out honours and awards.

Holiday hours

The Commissioner's Office will be closed from Thursday, December 22, to Tuesday, December 27. We'll be open again on Wednesday, December 28.

News

On the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

On behalf of all Yukoners, the Commissioner of Yukon offers her deepest sympathy on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Sign the Government of Canada's online book of condolences.

You can also sign Yukon's condolence book in person in Whitehorse. Visit Office of the Commissioner of Yukon at the Taylor House, 412 Main Street, during the office hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Read the September 8, 2022, statement from the Commissioner of Yukon.

Featured news releases

June 27, 2022 – Daisy Mason Wellness Fund recipient announced

On Friday, June 24, the Commissioner of Yukon Angélique Bernard, on behalf of the Daisy Mason Wellness Fund Advisory Committee, presented this year’s award to Nyla Klugie-Migwans. A member of the Selkirk First Nation, Nyla is planning to organize an event on the land where women can come together for a cleansing ceremony and learn about traditional medicine and teachings. Nyla received $750 to help cover the cost of gas, food and supplies for the event.

Read the complete news release.