Harry Winston Diamond Corporation announces Diavik Diamond Mine cancels winter production shutdown

Harry Winston Diamond Corporation announce Diavik Diamond Mines Inc.’s decision to cancel a winter production shutdown at the Diavik mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories.

Earlier this year, Diavik had announced a series of actions in response to changes in market conditions, including plans for a summer and winter production shutdown. The summer shutdown was safely and successfully concluded on August 24 and rough diamond production has returned to pre shutdown levels. The winter shutdown, which has now been cancelled, was originally planned for 1 December 2009 through 11 January 2010.

Robert Gannicott, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harry Winston Diamond Corporation commented “We are pleased to be able to resume regular supplies of Diavik diamonds to our valued customer base who, in turn, appreciate continuity of supply in support of their own businesses. We do not foresee a return to extreme conditions that would warrant a further shutdown”

During the summer production shutdown Diavik remained in compliance with all permits and licences. Mining and processing of ore ceased but other work, including environmental monitoring, raising of the embankment around the processed kimberlite containment area, and planned equipment maintenance occurred. Approximately 600 workers were affected but were able to use accumulated leave entitlements or access salary averaging.

The Diavik Diamond Mine, currently an open pit mine, is planning to commence underground production in early 2010. By 2012, Diavik expects open pit mining will cease at which time Diavik will become an all underground mine.