The Tłı̨chǫ Government has issued a public response to the Ekati Diamond Mine’s closure after the mine entered into receivership on July 14. Tłı̨chǫ leaders said that the latest mine closure has created more uncertainty for workers and their families.
“Ekati has been an important part of the Northwest Territories for many years. This is a significant development that will impact Tłı̨chǫ workers, families, businesses, and communities. We understand that this news is challenging for many of our citizens, particularly those employed at the mine, local businesses, contractors, and families whose livelihoods have been connected to Ekati,” said Tłı̨chǫ leaders in a statement issued on Friday morning.
Tłı̨chǫ leaders said they are working to protect the rights, interests and well-being of Tłı̨chǫ communities in the receivership process.
“Tłı̨chǫ Government is closely following these developments and is engaging with the receiver (PricewaterhouseCoopers), the Government of Northwest Territories, legal counsel, and other advisors to understand the implications and ensure that Tłı̨chǫ interests are represented at every stage.”
In March, the Diavik Mine closed operations. At that time, Indigenous and GNWT leaders said they anticipated more disruptions to Yellowknife’s mining sector.
Last year the Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation and GNWT launched a resource hub to help connect impacted workers with supports.
Tłı̨chǫ citizens affected by layoffs or operational changes are being encouraged to reach out to Tłı̨chǫ Government departments, including Client Services’ Career Development, Economic Development and Post-Secondary Support.
Tłı̨chǫ community members are being encouraged to reach out by phone, in person or via email at career@tlicho.ca / edo@tlicho.ca / post.secondary@tlicho.ca
The Ekati mine is known as the country’s first surface and underground diamond mine. The Burgundy Diamond owned mine is located about 310 kilometres north-east of Yellowknife.
The mine is located on the traditional territories of the Tłı̨chǫ.
At one time, the N.W.T. was known as the world’s third-largest diamond exporter, but market shifts towards more cost-affordable, lab-grown diamond alternatives have hit the natural diamond market hard.
Along with that shift, trade disruptions have had an impact due to U.S. tariffs on India, a main processing site for diamonds.
