The Yukon government has released a What We Heard report following engagement related to the review of the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act.

The act provides a process for employees of public organizations to follow if they are in a situation where:

• they believe a wrongdoing has been committed or is about to be committed; or

• if they believe they have been unfairly treated because of raising concerns about a wrongdoing.

Of the 78 total respondents who participated in the engagement, 55 indicated yes to expanding the act to cover other organizations or groups, the government said Wednesday.

The report summarizes the recent public engagement and input from Yukoners and stakeholders regarding potential improvements, such as expanding the act.

The public engagement ran from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2023. Yukoners and stakeholders were able to complete a short online survey and/or submit written input.

The public feedback will help the government determine if the act can be expanded, and other improvements.

“Thank you to all the Yukoners and stakeholders who dedicated their time and effort to participate in this important public engagement,” said Sandy Silver, the minister responsible for Public Service Commission.

“Your thoughts, concerns and ideas will help us to determine if the act could be expanded and if any other improvements can be made.”

The act was brought into force on June 15, 2015.

It’s designed to:

• facilitate the disclosure and investigation of significant and serious matters in, or relating to, public entities that an employee believes may be unlawful, dangerous to the public or injurious to the public interest;

• protect employees who make those disclosures; and

• promote public confidence in the administration of public entities.

The act currently covers:

• territorial government departments, directorates, secretariats or other similar executive agencies;

• the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board and Yukon Development, Energy, Hospital, Housing and Liquor corporations; and

• Yukon University, the Yukon Legislative Assembly Office, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate and the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer.