As Baffinland Iron Mines gears up to increase production at the Mary River mine, an 800-person camp was officially opened on Wednesday.
The increased production -- to six million metric tonnes per year in 2019 -- will also result in increased benefits for Inuit including enhanced employment and training opportunities, Baffinland stated in a news release.
Based on suggestions by company employees, the camp has been named Sailiivik, which translates as a comfortable place to rest and relax, and a place for families to come together.
“Sailiivik Camp represents an important investment in Baffinland employees,” said Brian Penney, the mining company's president and CEO. “It embodies Baffinland’s commitment to continue to build an inclusive, respectful, and family atmosphere at site.”
Wednesday's opening ceremony included the unveiling of a mural in the recreation room created by Inuit youth from Iglulik and Cape Dorset.
Representatives from the Senate of Canada, the Government of Nunavut, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, and the north Baffin communities, as well as Baffinland and its contractor employees were in attendance for the event.
