|
RAPAPORT... The Gahcho Kué diamond project in the Northwest Territories of Canada received its much anticipated land use permit. Project operators, De Beers Canada Inc. and Mountain Province Diamonds, explained that the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board (MVLWB) issued Gahcho Kué a type A land use permit and sent a water license for final approval to the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR).
Tony Guthrie, the CEO of De Beers Canada, said, "This represents one of the final regulatory steps for the Gahcho Kué diamond mine and is the result of very hard work by the project team over the past eight years with the board, regulatory agencies, aboriginal parties, communities and other stakeholders. We will continue to develop the project responsibly in keeping with the principles of sustainable development, including protection of the environment and with respect for aboriginal culture and traditions. We look forward to strengthening relationships with all stakeholders as we advance the project toward operation and build for the future together."
Patrick Evans, the CEO of Mountain Province Diamonds, added, "As the world's largest and richest new diamond mine, Gahcho Kué will maintain Canada's position as a leading diamond producer. Employment created by Gahcho Kué and revenue generated by the mine will contribute to growth and prosperity in the Northwest Territories. I extend my appreciation to the Gahcho Kué project team, the regulators as well as our community partners who have supported the mine development."
Gahcho Kué expects to employ close to 700 people during its two-year construction phase and approximately 400 people during its operational phase. De Beers owns a 51 percent share in the project, while Mountain Province Diamonds is a 49 percent stakeholder.
|