Mining News: Northern Neighbors: Ice road delivers; Gahcho Kué ready for 2016 start

Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. March 14 reported that development of the Gahcho Kué diamond mine is more than 87 percent complete and remains on track to begin production during the second half of this year. “Key areas of focus are remaining earthworks, commissioning of the primary crusher and diamond plant, pre-stripping and stockpiling of kimberlite as well as preparations for operational readiness,” said Mountain Province President and CEO Patrick Evans. “We are also pleased to report that the ice road deliveries to Gahcho Kué are proceeding to plan. Importantly, delivery of critical large mining equipment to site was completed last week with the bulk of the remaining deliveries being diesel fuel.” Gahcho Kué, located about 300 kilometers (186 miles) northeast of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, is a joint venture between De Beers Canada (51 percent) and Mountain Province Diamonds (49 percent). Gahcho Kué Joint Venture has appointed Allan Rodel as the mine general manager. Rodel joined the De Beers Group in 1997 and has held a number of senior management positions, including that of project manager at Gahcho Kué since 2013. Additionally, nine senior appointments have been made to the Gahcho Kué operational team, including the mining manager, engineering and maintenance manager, ore processing manager and technical services manager.

- Shane Lasley