Yukon Party Opposes Liberal Plan to Allow Use of Facial Recognition Software

WHITEHORSE – The Yukon Party Official Opposition is strongly opposed to a section of Bill 44, Traffic Safety Act that would allow the use of facial recognition software.

The Yukon’s Information and Privacy Commissioner has also expressed his concern about this proposed legislative change to allow the use of facial recognition software in a letter to the Minister of Highways and Public Works dated October 10, 2024. 

In his letter, Information and Privacy Commissioner Jason Pedlar stated, “My office was not informed or consulted about the contemplated authorization for use of facial recognition technology as part of Bill 44. Other jurisdictions have found that facial recognition software constitutes “biometric information.” Biometric information is personal information, and in our view, is highly sensitive.”

On Thursday, the Yukon Party proposed deleting “Section 215, Facial recognition to verify identity” from Bill 44.  The Liberal government opposed this change.  After hearing that the Third Party planned to support the Yukon Party in deleting this clause, the Liberal government asked for a recess.  When that request was denied, the government begged for a chance to “stand over” debate on Section 215, to avoid them being defeated on a vote.  The result is that this will be voted on later.

“We know many Yukoners have concerns about the potential use and misuse of facial recognition software,” said Highways and Public Works Critic Stacey Hassard. “The Yukon’s Information and Privacy Commissioner has also expressed concern about the Liberal’s proposal to allow the use of facial recognition software and confirmed he was never consulted on this proposal to use people’s biometric information.  The Yukon Party is opposed to the use of facial recognition software and will vote against it.”

“It is disappointing to see that the Liberal government is so determined to implement legislation that allows them to use facial recognition software,” noted Justice Critic Brad Cathers.  “My colleagues and I are listening to Yukoners and thank the Information and Privacy Commissioner for voicing his concerns with the part of Bill 44, Traffic Safety Act that allows the use of facial recognition software.  We hope the NDP will support us in voting against this section of the proposed legislation.”

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Tim Kucharuk
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