Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Caroline Wawzonek, released the following statement:
“From metals like zinc, lead, and gold to diamonds and now critical minerals, the Northwest Territories has a proud legacy – almost a century’s worth and counting – of continuous mining. It shapes our heritage and our future; and it is foundational to the future growth and diversification of our economy.
“Our mines employ a lot of people. They give hundreds of NWT families access to high-paying middle-class incomes. Countless other NWT residents work for companies or organizations that exist because of mining activity. In both cases, the mining industry also spurs a great deal of training opportunities for NWT residents.
“With mines have come extraordinary business opportunities for many NWT residents and Indigenous organizations. Almost $17 billion has been spent in NWT by diamond mines alone since they became part of our economy. Mining revenues are also important to government. Over the past 10 years, the GNWT has collected an average of nearly $100 million annually in taxes and royalties from diamond mines.
“And, we have all seen the difference that mining and exploration companies can make in our communities. In addition to benefit agreements and scholarship programs, they support countless events and initiatives. They sponsor sports teams, arts initiatives, literacy programs, and community festivals.
“NWT residents and communities have and continue to benefit from mining in the NWT; and the GNWT is working to increase responsible resource exploration and development as an important element of investment, partnership, employment and growth in the territory’s economy.
“Take some time this week to visit www.miningnorth.com and learn more about this important sector to our territory.”