The N.W.T.’s long-standing Diavik diamond mine is closing its operations to shift focus towards remediation after decades of producing over 150 million carats of diamonds, as reported by Rio Tinto, the mine’s owner. The shutdown of the mine, located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, occurred on Tuesday.
Over the years, the mine has employed hundreds of workers, with a peak workforce exceeding 1,000 individuals, some of whom are not native to the region. Sean Sinclair, who hails from Ontario and has resided in the territory for more than ten years, shared his intention to remain in Yellowknife. Sinclair’s journey with Diavik began while pursuing his master’s degree, leading to his current role as the closure manager at the mine.
Similarly, other employees like Mike Lowing, the principal adviser for health, safety, and environment, expressed a strong attachment to Yellowknife, where he has lived since 1974. Lowing emphasized the city’s promising future despite the closure of diamond mines and highlighted the potential impact of Diavik’s closure on various communities across the territory.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent announcement of a $35-billion investment plan for the North, including support for projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Taltson hydro expansion, presents new opportunities for workers like Lowing. With a positive outlook on upcoming ventures, Lowing expressed interest in contributing to these projects, emphasizing the employment prospects they offer.
While the closure of Diavik marks the end of an era for the mine, individuals like Alex Clinton, a senior adviser at Diavik, foresee a bright future for mining in the territories. Clinton, a longtime resident of Yellowknife, believes in the vast potential of mining in the region, particularly emphasizing the growing demand for gold. As gold prices surge to new heights, plans are underway to revive gold mining activities in the area, with projects like the reopening of Mon Mine after nearly three decades of dormancy.
Reflecting on the resurgence of the gold market, Clinton expressed optimism about the industry’s revitalization and his desire to continue contributing to the sector. He envisions a thriving mining landscape in the N.W.T., hoping that future opportunities will be available not just for himself but for the next generation as well.