Whitehorse, Yukon, Tuesday, September 27, 2016

I’d like to start by acknowledging that this gathering is taking place on the traditional territory of the Kwanlin Dün and Ta’an Kwäch’än First Nations.

I’m delighted to be here to welcome Your Royal Highnesses to Whitehorse for the continuation of your tour.

Welcome to northern Canada!

This is a vast and important part of the country that’s home to truly wonderful people!

I’ve visited Yukon and northern Canada on numerous occasions as governor general.

I’ve had the chance to meet with its people and to see how they live, work and dream together.

Something about this part of the country humbles and inspires us, and forces us to discover new things. And that’s an example all Canadians, and indeed people from around the world, can learn from.

People up here rely upon and support each other in unique ways. They always have. Up here, you have no choice but to work together and to form tightly-knit communities.

After every visit, I leave with the thought: this is the story of Canada.

It’s a story of people coming together and working toward common goals, sometimes in quite challenging conditions.

And speaking of people working together, as commander-in-chief of Canada I’m proud to be joined today by some members of the Canadian Rangers and Junior Rangers.

The Rangers have served Canada and the North with great skill and dedication for many years.

They are Canada’s eyes and ears up here, and so much more!

They perform an important service. They protect our sovereignty, and they are experts when it comes to living in one of the harshest natural environments in the world.

To the members of the Rangers who are here today: thank you for your steadfast service to Canada.

And thanks to Your Royal Highnesses for coming to Yukon to show your support for the great people of northern Canada.

I know you’re in for a very warm welcome, and some unique and inspiring experiences.

Have a wonderful time in Yukon!