Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty kicked off what he hopes will be a homegrown diamond rush yesterday as construction began on a billion-dollar mine on the western coast of James Bay. It's the product of more than 40 years of exploration and patience.
Owned by gem magnate De Beers SA of South Africa, the project promises hundreds of jobs, an economic boost to a remote part of the province populated mostly by aboriginals and the long-awaited beginnings of Ontario's fledgling diamond industry.
"Not only does it represent new economic opportunity in the north -- this being our first diamond mine ever -- but it's the beginning I think of new opportunity for the diamond sector," Mr. McGuinty said after travelling to the remote northern community.
"We have a wonderful new kind of marriage here between the private sector and a First Nations community. We are bound and determined to make sure that this is a winning combination."
Economists predict the mine will add roughly $6.7-billion to Ontario's gross domestic product over its projected 12-year lifespan.
Northern Ontario hopes to be a major player in that role, as diamonds are seen as a badly needed shot in the arm to the economically dormant region.
On hand for the opening ceremony, Northern Development Minister Rick Bartolucci called the possibilities for Ontario's diamond rush "limitless."
More than 300 First Nations people have found work through the mine, whether on the actual construction site or helping build nearby roads and power lines.
Attawapiskat First Nations Chief Mike Carpenter is mindful of the potential wealth lying underneath aboriginal land and hopes it will lead to a self-sustaining economic base for his people.
"We hope for a future with less dependency on the government," he said. To that end, he'll be watching to make sure the jobs De Beers offers his people aren't limited to entry-level ones, but also include higher-paying supervisor and management roles. He said the Victor project is a learning experience, and he's sure more will open in the future.