The longstanding Diavik diamond mine in the Northwest Territories is closing its operations to focus on remediation after decades of production. Situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, the mine, owned by Rio Tinto, has yielded over 150 million carats of diamonds. The closure was finalized on Tuesday, marking the end of an era for the mine that employed hundreds of workers, with a peak workforce exceeding 1,000 individuals, some of whom are not native to the region but express a desire to remain.
One such individual is Sean Sinclair, who hails from Ontario but has called the territory home for more than ten years. Sinclair’s journey with Diavik began during his pursuit of a master’s degree, eventually leading to a permanent position as a closure manager at the mine. Notably, he met his spouse in Yellowknife, who also works at Diavik, solidifying their commitment to staying in the area.
Similarly, Mike Lowing, a principal adviser for health, safety, and environment, shares a deep connection to Yellowknife since 1974. Despite the closure’s impact on various communities, Lowing remains optimistic about future prospects. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent announcement of a $35-billion investment plan for the North, emphasizing projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and Taltson hydro expansion, presents new opportunities that individuals like Lowing are willing to explore.
Looking ahead, Alex Clinton, a senior adviser at Diavik and a longtime resident of Yellowknife, advocates for continued mining activities in the region, particularly with a focus on gold. The escalating demand for this precious metal, coupled with ongoing mining initiatives like the reopening of the Mon Mine, indicates a promising future for the territory’s mining sector. Clinton’s dedication to the North is evident as he envisions a prosperous path for his children within the industry he has dedicated his life to.
