Ed. note: here, the Star presents profiles of the territory’s five federal election candidates in alphabetical order. All five candidates’ profiles are available for free to view.

Long-time public servant Justin Lemphers is running with the New Democratic Party (NDP) on a platform of climate action, affordability, reconciliation and tax fairness.

“As a New Democrat, I believe in a new deal for people. It’s about recognizing people, and the challenges we face in day-to-day life,” Lemphers said.

He chose to run with the NDP because the party’s platform aligns with values he developed through 16 years of public service.

Lemphers’ campaign has focused on a people-first approach, pledging to advocate for change that will benefit all Yukoners.

“There’s always room to do better,” he said of livability in the Yukon.

“Everyone has their own idea and vision of what success looks like, and they just want the tools to move into those places.”

Lemphers, 44, said he is committed to helping Yukoners receive fair treatment and address the challenges in their lives.

Lemphers advocates for “real climate action” through renewable energy, science-based emission reduction targets, ending subsidies to big oil companies with a transition plan for oil and gas workers.

“No one gets left behind,” Lemphers said of his party’s climate plan.

Affordability has been a major point of focus throughout Lemphers’ campaign and ties into his commitment to fight inequality and address social justice issues. 

He has committed to universal pharmacare and dental care, housing affordability, student debt relief and a cap on cell phone and Internet fees.

In an interview with the Star, Lemphers noted that both Whitehorse and rural Yukon communities are dependent on communication infrastructure, and he would work to improve the stability and affordability of services.

Lemphers has also committed to “true and equal partnership” with First Nations communities.

His party plans to implement the United Nations’ declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and honour the calls to action laid out in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the National Inquiry on Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls.

He has noted that reconciliation includes revenue-sharing and supporting Indigenous self-determination. 

Lemphers has stationed himself as a passionate advocate for First Nations at several debates. He conceded his speaking time at the Sept. 28 multiculturalism debate to circle the room brandishing a piece of paper demanding “Justice for Colten”.

It referenced a Canada-wide movement for justice reform following the acquittal of the Saskatchewan farmer who fatally shot Cree youth Colten Boushie in 2016.

Finally, Lemphers advocates for increased taxation on the “super-wealthy” who he says must pay their fair share. 

This is part of a platform focusing on tax fairness that includes closing tax loopholes, over-the-counter Canada Revenue Agency services, volunteer tax credits and “ending giveaways for the richest companies and individuals.”

Lemphers is pro-electoral reform, and advocates for mixed member proportional representation.

Born in the N.W.T., Lemphers lived in Yellowknife before moving to the Yukon as a child in 1983. He is the father of three adult sons.

“I know the reality of living in rural communities, I know the challenges, and the opportunities,” Lemphers said.

“I know I can be an effective representative because I understand what life in the North is like.”

Lemphers’ public service work has mainly been in the union and labour sector. He is a former president of the Yukon Federation of Labour. 

He worked in the Yukon’s mining industry for 14 years, as an assayer in a mineral analysis laboratory and then as a mining lands officer for the Yukon government.

Lemphers also worked as a water lab technician, where he established the first accredited drinking water testing laboratory in Yukon.

Within the Yukon Employees’ Union and the Public Service Alliance of Canada, Lemphers held multiple positions. Those included 10 years as shop steward and director as well as president and executive board director.

Lemphers currently volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of Yukon and previously founded and ran a local LGBTQ2+ community group.

His hobbies include “fishing, cycling and games of all kinds.”

Lemphers hopes his fight for equality will resonate with Yukoners.

“We need to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be successful here, in the North and across our communities.”