by Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jan 16/98) - If members of the city's task force preparing for the arrival of the diamond industry have questions about the operation of the group, they should address them to the task force, says co-chair David Connelly.

The Yellowknife businessman was referring to criticisms made by Yellowknife Diamond Industry Task Force member Ald. Kevin O'Reilly, at a council meeting Monday.

"I would assume that if he has concerns with the task force he would raise them with us," said Connelly, who just returned from a fact-finding tour of Antwerp, Belgium, and London.

"He has raised no concerns to us about its effectiveness that I'm aware of."

The task force is trying to foster value-added industries that could capitalize on Northern diamond production.

One mine has been approved and is scheduled to open later this year. A second is expected to make its formal application for an operating licence shortly.

Responding to O'Reilly's comment that the task force appears to have no strategic focus, Connelly noted the group will be producing a strategic plan this month. That could happen as soon as Wednesday, when the group's next meeting is scheduled.

Connelly's co-chair, Mayor Dave Lovell, said the meeting will be closed.

Connelly noted the task force was divided into four smaller groups to address different value added opportunities.

"This group is focused on producing results, not on process," added Connelly. "In a rapidly changing environment, the process has to be flexible."

City administrator Doug Lagore told O'Reilly on Monday that his request for a financial statement for the task force would be satisfied this week.

The task force, made up of volunteers, includes representatives of city council, local businesses, the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce, NWT Power Corporation, Yellowknives Dene and territorial government.