Coppermine (May 05/03) - Jeremy Ford describes the potential of the mining industry in Nunavut as unrivalled.

"It's a very interesting time in the history of Nunavut. We have a lot of exploration activity going on. There are currently 60 active exploration projects in the Kitikmeot," said Ford.

Jeremy Ford looks at rock samples sent by a Nunavut prospector working in Arviat. Ford is one of two community mining advisors with the Department of Sustainable Development. The position is new in the department. - photo courtesy of Margaret McKay

It is for that reason that his position was created.

He is one of two community mining advisors with the Department of Sustainable Development who divide the territory in half.

Based in Kugluktuk, it is Ford's responsibility to address the concerns of communities impacted by mining development.

"I act as a liaison between the mining companies with the interests of the community to hopefully involve them in the economic and employment opportunities that would be available to them," said Ford.

He is also involved with the prospector program, which grants $5,000 to people wishing to do mineral exploration in the territory.

Every year 20 to 30 people access the grant and Ford said they are encouraged over the results of the program.

"We have prospectors finding previously unknown mineral deposits," he said.

That opens up the opportunity for further mining development in addition to projects already underway, such as the Miramar Hope Bay gold mine. Development of that magnitude means that the rights of Northern people need protection and that is where Ford comes in.

"This is a position to help maximize Inuit benefits under the Land Claims Agreement," said Ford.

Being raised in Baker Lake and the fact he is Inuit is also a benefit.

"I believe it's very important to have an Inuk represent the needs of Inuit," said Ford.

"I'm very proud of what I do. The most important aspect of my job would be to explain mining issues and involve Inuit in the processes."