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Ekati Diamond Mine suspends operations over COVID-19 concerns

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Dominion said it would take all measures to restart the Ekati Mine as soon as possible and no later than Jan. 29, 2021. NNSL file photo

Dominion Diamond Mines is suspending operations at the Ekati Diamond Mine in an effort to combat the spread of COVID-19.

In a statement released Thursday evening, Dominion said the preventative move is a necessary step given the “rapid spread of the virus, the remote location of the Ekati mine’s operations and the high frequency of air travel required for employees and support staff to access mining operations.”

No Dominion employees have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, and, as of Thursday, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the NWT.

While mining operations will be suspended, Dominion says a “minimal care and maintenance crew” will stay at Ekati during the temporary shut down.

More to come.