The Gahcho Kué mine received its third major award Tuesday, March 7, at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC). It was presented the Viola R. MacMillan Award during the PDAC Awards Gala for demonstrating leadership in management and financing for the exploration and development of mineral resources. It was accepted by Allan Rodel, general manager, Gahcho Kué mine, on behalf of De Beers Canada, and Patrick Evans, CEO of Mountain Province Diamonds.
Gahcho Kué mine is a joint venture between operator De Beers (51%) and Mountain Province. The mine officially began commercial production on March 2. It is located about 280 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Comprising three open pits, the mine will employ 530 people full time, with the majority working a two-week in/two-week out rotation.
“To build and bring into operation a world-class mine like Gahcho Kué safely, early and ahead of budget is rare in the mining industry today,” said Kim Truter, CEO of De Beers Canada Inc. “This award is recognition that we are on the right track and that our employees, community and business partners are also able to deliver on a world-class level.”
Mountain Province President and CEO Patrick Evans added, “This award recognizes the combined efforts of a large and talented team of mining and finance professionals who contributed to the successful financing and development of Gahcho Kué.”
“I am extremely proud of the work done by every member of the team at Gahcho Kué,” said Rodel. “We work in some of the most difficult conditions found anywhere in the world, and we have achieved so many important milestones safely, without harm to people or the environment.”
In 2016, Gahcho Kué received Gold at the 11th Annual Project Management Institute’s awards gala as well as the Workplace Health and Safety Award from the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce.
