March 4, 2020
(Photos via Invest Canada North Twitter)
It was a full day of conversations and presentations about Canada's North on Monday at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) 2020 Convention.
Leaders from the mining industry, Indigenous organizations and government came together to offer potential investors and developers insights into mineral investment opportunities in Canada's North.
Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Katrina Nokleby set the stage for a discussion about mining in the NWT by highlighting that increased investment and exploration for resources is a priority for her government.
"Investors want to know that the people and the place they’re doing business, is in support," the Minister noted. "I've already told you that the government is on board... so are our residents."
The Minister's comments were echoed later in the day in a NWT investment-themed panel discussion featuring: Deputy Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Pamela Strand; President and CEO of Denendeh Investments Incorporated, Darrell Beaulieu; and David Connelly of Cheetah Resources and Vital Metals.
Representing three perspectives of northern mining, the panel, moderated by President and CEO of Det'on Cho Development Corp Paul Gruner, spoke to the growing list of competitive advantages the NWT is putting in place.
"We're working on leveling the playing field," DM Strand noted highlighting the advancement of much-needed transportation and energy infrastructure.
Progress is evident, Mr. Beaulieu agreed, noting the importance of fully engaging Indigenous governments. "I'm looking at a glass that is half-full, we want to make it three-quarters full and keep adding from there."
"The North has resources," Mr. Connelly emphasized, "They are not going anywhere; good rocks, in fact fantastic rocks - and more rocks to come and work with."
The NWT's message supported similar presentations from the Yukon and Nunavut territories, all presented under the jointly funded Invest Canada North banner.
The full day focus on Canada's North was concluded in a dynamic testimonial by Mpumi Zikalala Managing Director for DeBeers Group appropriately titled "Why We Invest in Canada's North".