Priestly Demolition Joins Forces with Indigenous Partners for Diavik Diamond Mine's Closure Phase

Priestly Demolition Inc. Partners with DJRM for Diavik Mine Closure

Priestly Demolition Inc. (PDI), a prominent player in the demolition industry, has announced its collaboration with the Indigenous joint venture DJRM First Nations Construction Corporation. This partnership aims to execute demolition services for Diavik Diamond Mine, which is set to close in early 2026. This agreement highlights a commitment to safe, environmental, and community-focused operations during the mine's final phase.

The Diavik Diamond Mine, located in the remote Northwest Territories, has been operational since 2003. Over its years of service, it has made significant contributions to the Canadian diamond industry, becoming the first diamond mine in the country to exceed 150 million carats of production by 2025. With the clock ticking down to its closure, PDI's involvement is seen as crucial to ensuring responsible deconstruction practices aligned with the community's values.

Shane Stewart, President and CEO of Priestly Demolition, expressed the importance of this project: "We are honored to be part of this important chapter in the Diavik Mine history and in partnering on a closure program that prioritizes safety, community, and the environment. At Priestly, we believe true success in demolition is measured not just by what we remove, but by what we leave behind — opportunity, respect, and a lasting positive legacy for future generations in the North."

A Focus on Community and Environmental Integrity

In the face of this complex and sensitive project, the role of PDI is multifaceted. The demolition work will involve dismantling existing infrastructure while engaging in meaningful collaboration with local Indigenous groups and regulatory bodies to uphold environmental integrity. The Demolition will be carried out in phases, with significant planning currently ongoing.

The complexities of working in such a remote location cannot be understated; adverse weather conditions, logistical challenges, and environmental regulations must all be navigated expertly. PDI brings years of experience in tackling high-complexity projects in isolated regions, ensuring that demolition activities will remain safe and community-aligned.

PDI's involvement in the Diavik closure is part of a broader movement toward sustainability and progressive reclamation, which has been a focus since the mine's inception. Since 2017, multiple active closure initiatives have been in motion, which not only aim to restore the landscape but also to meet the specific closure objectives outlined with Northern partners. Full demolition activities at the site are projected to be completed by 2029, after which the land will undergo further reclamation.

Sustainable Practices and Long-Term Goals

As part of its commitment to the environment, PDI will adhere to the Diavik Final Closure and Reclamation Plan. This plan has been developed through collaboration with numerous Northern stakeholders, reinforcing the emphasis on environmental stewardship throughout the closure process.

Matthew Breen, Chief Operating Officer at Rio Tinto Diavik, highlighted the synergy of the partnership, stating, "Diavik's focus remains on Closing Responsibly and Closing with Care, and we are looking forward to continuing that journey with PDI and DJRM. Demolition at a remote site like Diavik is a complex and challenging operation in which safety and the environment have always been our priority."

Additionally, Leigh-Anne Palter, CEO of Denesołine Corporation representing the DJRM, affirmed the unique opportunity that Indigenous partners have in leading the closure efforts. "Mine closure is where promises are tested. Through DJRM, Indigenous partners are not just participating in closure—we are leading it, ensuring Diavik's environmental and community legacy is carried forward in a way that reflects Northern values, knowledge, and long-term opportunity."

This initiative not only stands as a significant operational project but as a testament to the evolving relationship between Indigenous communities and industry stakeholders, working hand in hand toward a sustainable future. Priestly Demolition aims to establish a model for future projects, demonstrating that responsible demolition can yield positive outcomes for communities and the environment. As this journey unfolds, all eyes will be on PDI, DJRM, and Diavik to set new standards in sustainable mine closure.