A well-established mine in the Northwest Territories is ceasing its operations to shift focus towards remediation efforts. The Diavik diamond mine, located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, has been in operation for many years, yielding over 150 million carats of diamonds, as per the mine’s owner, Rio Tinto. On Tuesday, the mine permanently closed its doors.
Over the years, the mine has employed hundreds of workers, with peak employment surpassing 1,000 individuals. While not all employees hail from the region, some have expressed a desire to remain in the Northwest Territories. Sean Sinclair, originally from Ontario, has been residing in the territory for more than a decade. He joined Diavik while pursuing his master’s degree and has since progressed to the role of closure manager at the mine. Sinclair’s spouse, who also works at Diavik, was met in Yellowknife. The couple has no immediate plans to depart the region, expressing their fondness for the area.
Similarly, other employees at the mine, such as Mike Lowing, the principal adviser for health, safety, and environment, share a positive outlook on the future of Yellowknife despite the closure of Diavik. Lowing, who has called Yellowknife home since 1974, emphasized the city’s appeal and his commitment to remaining there. He acknowledged the impact of Diavik’s closure on various communities in the territory but remains optimistic about upcoming opportunities.
Recent developments, like Prime Minister Mark Carney’s $35-billion investment plan for the North, offer hope for future projects in the region. The plan includes support for initiatives such as the Mackenzie Valley Highway project and the Taltson hydro expansion, signaling potential employment prospects. Lowing expressed interest in contributing to these projects, highlighting the employment opportunities they could bring to the region.
While the closure of the Diavik mine marks the end of an era, it does not signify the end of mining activities in the Northwest Territories, according to Alex Clinton, a senior adviser at Diavik. Clinton, who has resided in Yellowknife for many years, envisions a resurgence in mining activities, particularly in gold mining. With a rising demand for gold, there is a renewed focus on gold mining in the region, building on Yellowknife’s historical gold mining legacy.
Notably, a new winter road near Yellowknife is set to facilitate operations at the Mon Mine, signaling a revival in gold mining activities. As gold prices surge, reaching record highs in early 2026, there is renewed enthusiasm for the sector. Clinton, expressing his commitment to the North, hopes for future opportunities for his children in the mining industry, reflecting his dedication to the region and its potential for growth.