The territorial government has offered to doubling its transfer payment agreement to the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation to care for two historic sites in northern Yukon.

They are Gindèhchik/Rampart House and Zheh Gwatsàl/LaPierre House.

In July 2023, the government and the First Nation signed an updated Historic Site Management Plan for the two locations.

“I am proud to announce that in accordance with the objectives of that updated management plan, the Government of Yukon has proposed doubling the transfer payment agreement to the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation for these sites to $120,000,” Tourism and Culture Minister Minister John Streicker said Tuesday.

“These extra funds will support the plan’s goals of a longer work season and larger work crew to carry out the important conservation and interpretation work being undertaken throughout the summer, as well as account for the rising costs of supplies and transport.

“Additionally, the Government of Yukon has committed $75,000 in the capital budget for each of the next three fiscal years to invest in these sites,” Streicker added.

The forecast spending this year includes:

• $24,200 for a feasibility study for the construction of a bridge to improve accessibility at Rampart House; and

• $13,500 toward design of a permanent kitchen and dining facility in Rampart House to better support the work crew as well as improve capacity for culture camps and other programming.

“Capital funding in future years will go towards constructing the camp kitchen at Rampart House, as well as extending the system of boardwalks and construction of a helicopter pad at LaPierre house to protect the site and improve access,” Streicker said.

“Working together in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration ensures that the heritage resources of the territory are preserved and managed for the benefit and understanding of all.”

Informed by extensive community engagement, the minister said, the plan expands recognition of Gwich’in language and cultural history with an emphasis on employing Vuntut Gwitchin citizens in its implementation.

The two sites, Streicker said, “are cherished and significant examples of the Yukon’s heritage, and have been traditional harvesting and gathering sites for thousands of years.

“Thanks to the guidance of a knowledgeable and passionate heritage committee, and the invaluable input of Vuntut Gwitchin elders and citizens, the collective vision laid out in the plan continues to prioritize meaningful stewardship over the area, while honouring cultural revitalization, and empowering the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation to uphold and innovate within their heritage.”