Diavik partners file EA report

Diavik Diamond Mines, a subsidiary of Rio Tinto (RTP-N), has submitted its environmental assessment for the Diavik project to the federal government.

Situated northeast of Yellowknife, N.W.T., the project is owned 60% by Diavik, the operator, and 40% by Aber Resources (ABZ-T).

The partners conclude that the overall environmental effects of the project would be minimal, and that it would contribute positively to the social and economic conditions of the Northwest Territories.

A feasibility study is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter. If permits are granted by the fall of 1999 and a positive production decision is made, crews could be mobilized to the site in the first quarter of 2000. Construction of infrastructure could be completed by 2002, with commercial production slated for the second quarter of 2002.