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Diamonds are Forever Our Mines are Not

The diamond mining industry has undergone significant changes since the opening of Ekati in 1998, shifting from a time of economic slump to the current competitive landscape. Key challenges include rising operational costs, climate change impacts, and decreased market prices. Despite these obstacles, diamond mining remains a vital contributor to the Northwest Territories' economy, with projects like Ekati and Diavik generating substantial employment and economic benefits. However, issues such as high living costs and contractor challenges hinder local workforce engagement and advancement opportunities.

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Diamonds are Forever Our Mines are Not

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  1. Diamonds are ForeverOur Mines are Not Recommendations to improve and sustain the diamond mining industry

  2. The Industry, Then and Now • Much has changed since opening of Ekati in 1998 • NWT was experiencing an economic slump and resource development was welcomed • In 2007, Western Canadian economy is soaring, competition is fierce for skilled workers

  3. Rising Costs • Fuel costs • Transition to underground mining • Decreased market prices • Strong Canadian dollar • High taxes • Shorter winter road seasons • Climate change

  4. Economic benefits • Ekati and Diavik in production • Debeers commencing full production in 2008 • In 2006, diamond mining contributed to 50% of NWT Real GDP • Two existing mines have found incredible wealth in high-grade kimberlite pipes

  5. Exceeding targets • Mines are producing in excess of predicted tonnage • Unrestricted production • Extracting all higher grade ore first • Will result in reduction of mine life

  6. Employment Boom • Three mines will produce 2,000 new jobs over next few years • SEMAs are “unenforceable” and “have no teeth” • Contracted workers count towards SEMA commitments • SEMAs do not guarantee skilled worker positions for Northerners

  7. Economic Obstacles • High cost of living • High percentage of mine workers living in the south • Mine employees falsely claiming Northern addresses accessing NWT medical coverage, increasing costs to taxpayers • GNWT losing per capita grant allotment, approximately $20,000 per year

  8. Hiring Contractors • Contractors are an important part of Northern presence at the mines • Play an important part of the Northern presence at the mine

  9. Concern with contracting • Contractors who provide camp services pay low wages and offer poor benefits packages • Lack of opportunities for training and advencement • Contracted employees are passed over for permanent positions with the mining companies

  10. Apprenticeships and training opportunities

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