ARCHIVED Glossary of Mining Terminology - Introduction

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada has a broad mandate in Nunavut. This includes resource management on Crown land, economic development and obligations under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement.

Resource development is an emerging industry in Nunavut and improving communications between government, the mining industry and the residents of Nunavut is paramount. Not only is it important for the mining industry to communicate with government, but there also needs to be clear communication with communities.

The majority of Nunavummiut are Inuit, and Inuktitut is the primary language in the territory. Although some Inuktitut terms are available, there is a general understanding that Inuktitut terminology pertaining to resource development is limited. Improving and developing terms in Inuktitut will go a long way to strengthening communication between Inuktitut speakers, governments and the resource development industry.

The Glossary of Mining Terminology is a first attempt to improve Inuktitut terminology in the resource development field. In March 2005, Inuit elders from across Nunavut, Inuktitut language specialists and a subject specialist gathered for a three-day workshop to develop the terms in this glossary. The workshop was funded by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

The aim of the glossary is to clarify some technical words associated with resource development using everyday language. The Glossary of Mining Terminology is a living document that will continue to be improved as the industry develops and Inuktitut speakers become more accustomed to the language used by the industry.

For more information, contact:

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Box 2200
Iqaluit, Nunavut  X0A 0H0
Tel: 867-975-4500
Fax: 867-975-4560
E-mail: nuinfo@ainc-inac.gc.ca
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Web site