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De Beers Canada Inc. as the Operator and Mountain Province Diamonds (TSX: MPV, NYSE MKT: MDM) are pleased to announce that the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board (MVLWB) has issued the Gahcho Kué Type A Land Use Permit and sent the Type A Water License for final approval to the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT).

Tony Guthrie, CEO of De Beers Canada Inc.:

“This represents one of the final regulatory steps for the Gahcho Kué diamond mine and is the result of very hard work by the Project team over the past eight years with the Board, Regulatory agencies, Aboriginal parties, Communities and other Stakeholders. We will continue to develop the Project responsibly in keeping with the principles of sustainable development, including protection of the environment, and with respect for Aboriginal culture and traditions.

We look forward to strengthening relationships with all Stakeholders as we advance the project toward operation and build for the future together.

We want to thank the Board and staff of the MVLWB and the many Participants for their work during the permitting process.”

Patrick Evans, CEO of Mountain Province Diamonds, added:

“As the world’s largest and richest new diamond mine, Gahcho Kué will maintain Canada’s position as a leading diamond producer. Employment created by Gahcho Kué and revenues generated by the mine will contribute to growth and prosperity in the NWT. I extend my appreciation to the Gahcho Kué Project team, the Regulators as well as our community partners who have supported the mine development.”

Gahcho Kué will employ close to 700 people during the two years of construction and approximately 400 people during its operational phase.