Government of CanadaMarch 8, 2004EFFORD PRAISES SUCCESS OF CANADA'S DIAMOND INDUSTRYOTTAWA - The diamond industry is booming in Canada. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) statistics on 2003 mineral production confirm Canada as one of the world leaders in the competitive diamond industry. In 2003, 11.2 million carats were mined in Canada for a total worth of $1.7 billion. This is more than double the amount of carats from last year. In 2002, 4.9 million carats were mined for a total worth of more than $790 million. "We are very excited by Canada's rapid advancement in the diamond industry," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. "To be ranked third in the world in the value of diamond production after only five years is nothing short of remarkable." The benefits of Canada's burgeoning diamond industry reach across the country, especially in rural and remote areas in the North. Diamond mining is providing high-income employment to northern residents, including Aboriginal peoples. According to employment figures in a January 2004 report by Statistics Canada, there are currently about 2,200 jobs related to diamond mining in the Ekati and Diavik mines, with another approximately 500 estimated by the Snap Lake project. In addition, about 150 Canadians are engaged in the cutting and polishing business. "Northerners, especially Aboriginal peoples, are benefiting tremendously from training, business and employment opportunities in both mining and related service industries," said Minister Efford. "Diamond mining is one of the major success stories in the continuing growth of the Northern economy, " said the Honourable Andy Mitchell, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. "This success is enhanced by the strong partnerships struck between First Nations, Inuit and northerners, and the mining companies." "Natural resources and allied industries are a vital part of Canada's economy and society, and are the lifeblood of more than 600 communities across Canada, particularly northern and Aboriginal communities," said the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Minister of State, Children and Youth. The initial discovery of kimberlite pipes (host rock of diamonds) in 1991 at Point Lake in the Northwest Territories jump-started the industry. Seven years later in 1998, the Ekati diamond mine began production, followed by the Diavik mine in 2003. Three more mines are expected to begin production - Jericho in Nunavut (2005), Snap Lake in the Northwest Territories (2006) and possibly Victor in northern Ontario (2007). NRCan is proud to support the growing Canadian diamond industry and is committed to enhancing our quality of life through the sustainable development of natural resources - supporting the Government of Canada's agenda of strong social foundations, a strong economy for the 21st century and ensuring Canada's role of pride and influence in the world. For more information, media may contact: Alexandra Muir Ghyslain Charron Director of Communications Media Relations Office of the Minister, Natural Resources Canada Natural Resources Canada (613) 992-4447 (613) 947-8246
