WWF calls halt to diamond hunt

Concerned about the environmental consequences of mining in the central Arctic, World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF) has called for a halt to diamond exploration and mine development in the Northwest Territories until a regional environmental impact study is carried out.

In a letter to the Hon. Ronald Irwin, federal Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, WWF recommends that:

* the $500-million diamond project belonging to BHP and Dia Met Minerals (TSE) be placed on hold until a regional review and/or land use plan are completed;

* environmental assessments be conducted before prospecting or land use permits are issued, and that such assessments consider cumulative effects; and * there be an immediate cessation of any prospecting or staking occurring within the proposed Bluenose National Park area.

WWF President Monte Hummel told The Northern Miner that “we’re not trying to discourage mining in the Northwest Territories; we just want to make sure it goes ahead in a common-sense way.”

Hummel says the WWF’s primary concerns are a lack of regulation in the exploration phase and a lack of ground rules for mine development. In addition, the group is also concerned about the impact of development on the Bathurst Caribou herd and grizzly bears.

Since 1991, nearly 50 million acres have been staked. This compares with fewer than a million acres per year staked in the preceding 10-year period. At last count, more than 200 mining companies were involved in the northern diamond hunt.

Reactions to the proposal from the investment community have been rather hostile, while BHP’s diamond project manager Bruce Turner said the company does not feel threatened by the proposal and is prepared to debate the issues openly.