8 May 2020
(Iqaluit, NU – May 8, 2020) Nunavut has a rich history of exploration and mining. Modern mining commenced in the territory with the Rankin Inlet nickel mine which began production in 1957. Since then, several mines have been built, and today, Nunavut boasts four operating mines, three gold and one iron.
To commemorate its mining industry, the territory’s Nunavut Mining Week begins Monday, May 11.
“Mining week is an opportunity to reflect upon Nunavut’s rich mining history, to learn more about the minerals industry, and to look ahead to the future of exploration and mining in the territory,” said NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines President Ken Armstrong.
“Mining is an extremely challenging business. Perhaps never more so than today. Despite the challenges faced by our industry, we have seen many successes and remain optimistic about the minerals industry’s future and its ability to continue to deliver benefits to Nunavummiut,” he added. “Amid the COVID-19, pandemic, I would like to acknowledge all the excellent work industry is doing, together with government and Inuit Organizations, to protect workers and communities.”
For Nunavut mining week, a new on-line Nunavut mining booklet, with several fun and informational activities for Nunavut youth, has been developed.
Produced through a partnership of the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines Mining North Works! public awareness program, Yukon Mining Alliance, Yukon Women in Mining, and Mining Matters, the booklet provides a resource activity youth can complete at home. We encourage you to join the Nunavut Mining Week celebration and we look forward to your on-line submissions!
To learn more about all things mining, explore Mining North Works! which includes the Explore for Your Career catalogue profiling several Nunavut mine workers. The minerals industry offers over 150 different types of employment. The website also features the Mining North Works for Nunavut video.
See the full release, with backgrounder.