It looks like another First Nations run casino will be coming to Saskatchewan.
Earlier today the Saskatchewan Government granted approval to the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority and the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations to build a casino in Lloydminster.
Before construction can happen the two groups will need to provide a community consultation plan.
There must also be municipal approval from the City of Lloydminster as well as approval from the province and FSIN Chiefs in assembly to amend the Gaming Framework Agreement.
Don McMorris Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan’s Liquor and Gaming Authority says he is not sure how long that process could take.
“That’s really up to the community and SIGA to determine what kind of consultation process they want to go through,” Says McMorris. “We are saying we are conditionally in agreement with it, but it really has to be a local decision, so however long that process and I think it would be a matter of months and not years.”
McMorris says at this time the Gaming Framework Agreement between SIGA and the Government of Saskatchewan will not change.
The agreement sees 50% of casino revenue go to First Nations trust, 25% to the province and the remaining 25% to community initiatives.
FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says the casino will help grow First Nations economic opportunities based on treaty rights to economic self determination.
“That’s a very key point, we are a part of the economy and our First Nations people contribute.”
Chief Cameron says he is glad to see another SIGA casino in Saskatchewan because they have been successful across the province.
“First Nation businesses, economy and people are doing what we can to ensure economic development for a better quality of life.”
Currently there are 6 casinos across the province run by SIGA in Prince Albert, North Battleford, Yorkton, Swift Current, Whitecap Dakota First Nation and White Bear First Nation.
The provincial government runs the casinos in Moose Jaw and Regina