Yukon Premier Backs Cancer Coverage for Wildland Firefighters

Yukon Premier Currie Dixon has expressed support for extending presumptive cancer coverage to wildland firefighters, although he has not provided a specific timeline for implementation. This commitment comes as wildland firefighters push for amendments to the Yukon’s Workers’ Safety And Compensation Act, which currently includes coverage for 19 types of cancers affecting full-time and part-time volunteer firefighters, but excludes those who combat wildfires.

In his previous role as opposition leader, Dixon highlighted the need for this change, stating, “it’s time this change be made.” The Yukon Party reaffirmed this commitment in its campaign platform during the recent election. On the first day of the legislative assembly’s session, Dixon told reporters that while his government remains dedicated to this cause, the timeline for introducing new legislation is uncertain.

“In the two weeks we’ve been in power now, we haven’t had time to initiate any of the legislative commitments that we made throughout the election campaign,” Dixon explained. “You won’t see any new legislation come to the floor in the next two weeks.” He emphasized that the commitments made during the campaign will be addressed as the government develops its legislative agenda in the coming months.

Community Impact and Concerns

The push for presumptive cancer coverage is driven by the experiences of wildland firefighters like Alex MacPhail, who operates out of Mayo, Yukon. MacPhail has been vocal about the importance of this coverage, asserting that the hazards associated with wildfire fighting do not end when the fire is extinguished. “There’s two aspects to it,” he said. “There’s the acute, initial exposure that you have when you’re actually fighting the fire. And then there’s the particulate matter that hangs out in the air, the drift smoke.”

MacPhail has raised concerns about the long-term health implications of his work, particularly as he considers starting a family. “The thought of getting a cancer diagnosis from a doctor after doing a job I’ve loved for decades weighs on me heavily,” he commented. He hopes to see legislative changes that would provide protection for himself and his colleagues.

Support from Indigenous Leadership

The call for presumptive cancer coverage is echoed by Nick Mauro, CEO of Yukon First Nations Wildfire. Mauro argues that this legislation presents a crucial opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices made by those who prioritize the safety of their fellow Yukoners. He noted that there is often a misconception that wildland firefighters face fewer risks than their urban counterparts.

“You’ll hear suggested that wildland fuels are mostly organic — you know, trees, moss, brush — they’re less toxic than plastics or synthetics that are burning in urban fires,” Mauro explained. Yet he pointed out that major public health agencies in Canada consistently advise residents to avoid outdoor activities when wildfire smoke is present.

Mauro advocates for comprehensive coverage for all wildland firefighters, including those employed by the territorial government and those working with Yukon First Nations Wildfire. “We’re under the same command structure, breathing the same smoke. We want to see coverage for everybody, and be included in that conversation,” he said. He emphasizes that this is not merely symbolic support but an opportunity for tangible action in reconciliation.

As the Yukon government navigates its legislative agenda, the commitment to include wildland firefighters under cancer coverage remains a significant issue for many in the community. Both MacPhail and Mauro continue to advocate for the health and safety of those who serve on the front lines of wildfire management, highlighting the urgent need for legislative reform in this critical area.