The Yellowknife Curling Centre has been closed since February 8th 2023 due to the ongoing labour dispute.
This closure has had a negative impact on our members and staff, as well as curlers from other NWT communities that wished to take part in scheduled NWTCA championship events that we were to host. The ripple effect is larger than just our club as it impacts, family schedules, travel bookings and more.
The City of Yellowknife owns and maintains the Yellowknife Curling Centre building. Many curling clubs across the country are run entirely by volunteers. The Yellowknife Curling Club hires non-city employees to staff the club and run activities with help from volunteers. The city has an agreement with our club that we take care of curling activities, ice maintenance, bar and admin services to provide curling in Yellowknife and the city will maintain the building snow & waste removal, plumbing, electrical and any structural issues that arise.
Our parking lot entrance to the YK Curling Club is blocked by picketers a majority of the time. We also don’t have any city staff to call if the building needs any maintenance. We will only be able to resume curling activities when the strike is resolved.
If you would like to voice your concerns about any of the interruptions to city services and access to recreational facilities please visit the city website to find a list of contacts for city councilors and the mayor.
The Union of Northern Workers contact information can be found on their website.
We understand the frustration members and curlers from around the NWT may be feeling due to the situation and will let you know when there are any changes.