A longstanding mining operation in the Northwest Territories is ceasing activities to shift its focus towards remediation efforts. The Diavik diamond mine, situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, has been in operation for several decades, producing over 150 million carats of diamonds under Rio Tinto’s ownership. On Tuesday, the mine officially ceased operations.
Throughout its operational history, the Diavik mine has employed hundreds of individuals, with a peak workforce exceeding 1,000 employees. While not all workers are local to the region, some, like Sean Sinclair from Ontario, have chosen to make the Northwest Territories their home. Sinclair, who initially joined Diavik while pursuing his master’s degree, now holds the position of closure manager at the mine. He met his wife in Yellowknife, where she also works at Diavik, and both express a strong attachment to the city.
Echoing similar sentiments, Mike Lowing, the principal adviser for health, safety, and environment at the mine, has been a resident of Yellowknife since 1974. Despite the closure of the Diavik mine impacting various communities in the region, there are new opportunities on the horizon. Prime Minister Mark Carney recently unveiled a $35 billion investment plan for the North, which includes projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Taltson hydro expansion. Lowing is enthusiastic about potentially contributing to these projects, emphasizing the employment opportunities they may bring to the region.
As the Diavik mine concludes its operations, individuals like Alex Clinton, a senior adviser at the mine with a longstanding residence in Yellowknife, advocate for the continuation of mining activities in the territories. Clinton sees significant potential in gold mining, driven by the rising demand for the precious metal. Notably, efforts are underway to revive gold mining activities in the region, including the reopening of the Mon Mine, located east of Yellowknife, after nearly three decades of inactivity. With the resurgence of gold prices in early 2026, surpassing $5,000 US per ounce, Clinton is optimistic about the market outlook.
Looking ahead, Clinton envisions a thriving mining sector in the territories, hoping that his children, born in the Northwest Territories, will have opportunities to follow in his footsteps. The resurgence of the gold market and ongoing mining developments indicate a promising future for the industry in the region.