Dominion Diamond Corporation is halting processing at its Ekati mine for three months after a June 23 fire.
The blaze did not affect the main structural components of the plant, but did cause damage to a small area. The plant will undergo repairs for three months, after which Dominion will continue operations at full capacity.
In the aftermath of the fire, Dominion is putting lower-value ore mining on hold, but will continue to mine higher-value materials. Additionally, Dominion plans to reduce capital costs by temporarily laying off some staff and deferring non-essential sustaining capital.
“We are taking the most prudent course of action which delivers limited, ongoing mining of higher-value ore, while also taking the necessary steps to make repairs and return to production and preserve capital,” says Brendan Bell, CEO of Dominion.
Author: Canadian Jeweller Magazine Staff
Canadian Jeweller Magazine Staff is the shared byline for reporting filed by the magazine's editorial desk. Founded in 1879, Canadian Jeweller is the longest running jewellery business publication in Canada, covering market reporting, retail strategy, watches, diamonds, coloured gemstones and the commerce of the Canadian jewellery trade. Work published under this byline is edited and verified by the Canadian Jeweller editorial team in Toronto.
