Akesuk to hold mine closure meetings in Arctic Bay

Olayuk Akesuk, the minister of sustainable development for the government of Nunavut, plans to begin discussions with the people of Arctic Bay on the closure of the Nanisivik mine.

Akesuk will visit the community early in the new year, along with Quttiktuq MLA Rebekah Williams, who represents the area. They will talk about the socio-economic impact of Nanisivik’s closure and listen to the social and economic concerns of Arctic Bay residents.

Breakwater Resources Ltd. has said it will close its zinc mine in September 2002. The mine had not been expected to close until 2004.

While the company is responsible for an environmental cleanup of the site, Akesuk said in a statement that he wants to ensure the public is involved in all aspects of planning and decisions regarding the closure.

The GN is also exploring alternative uses for the property.