New recycling fees in Yukon put on hold

The Yukon government is putting the brakes on changes to recycling rules.

It had planned to introduce new fees on a number of products starting in August, but now says it will take more time to consult with the business community.

The delay comes after some Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce members complained that some of the fees are unfair. They met with government officials this week, including Community Services Minister Currie Dixon.  

"He apologized," said chamber president Rick Karp. "Because he realized that he missed a step.

"The step was, once you have the regulations, go back to the stakeholders and say 'does this work?'"

The new surcharges were to be levied at the point of purchase and were intended to offset the processing costs of recyclables.

New fees for beverage containers were to be introduced in August, and fees for tires and electronics were to take effect in October.

Dixon now says it could be another year before anything changes.

"Obviously, we wanted to move ahead but at the same time, we want to get it right," Dixon said.

"We want to take this time to re-engage with the business community and make sure that we are moving forward in a way that is going to work for them and not create a disadvantage for Yukon businesses."

Karp hopes the chamber will submit recommendations to the minister before the territorial election this fall.