The Yellowknives Dene First Nation, Tłı̨chǫ Government and GNWT say they’re partnering to help residents hit by diamond mine job losses and diversify the economy.
In a joint Wednesday news release, the three governments said they had launched a central hub for programs that help people affected by mine closures, with plain-language handouts being developed.
The governments committed to working together to ensure residents are “quickly connected to the right supports.” Community drop-in sessions will be held.
More broadly, the governments said they are lobbying Ottawa for “targeted supports for the resource sector … including retraining initiatives, housing investment and infrastructure funding.”
The press release also mentioned work to improve procurement for the benefit of northerners and target “regulatory efficiency” while encouraging businesses to “explore new opportunities, diversify their operations, and prepare for emerging sectors such as clean energy, tourism, fisheries, and conservation.”
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The NWT has three active diamond mines, of which one is on the point of closing and another has laid off hundreds of workers.
“With the Diavik mine expected to close in 2026 and recent layoffs across the sector, the economic impacts are being felt across the territory and the global diamond industry as a whole,” the governments stated.
“In response, the three governments are ensuring that northerners have access to immediate supports, while also advancing long-term economic opportunities that will strengthen communities, create new jobs, and build resilience for the future.”
