The provincial government of Saskatchewan, Canada recently granted approval for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations to operate a casino in Lloydminster. Following permission from the city, FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said construction will begin “as soon as possible.” He added, “We have been interested in expanding to Lloydminster for some time so it’s exciting not only for our organization and First Nations people, but also for residents and tourists who will visit this new casino. It’s not just the casino that’s going to benefit. It’s all these other small businesses that are going to benefit as well.”
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Minister Don McMorris said the proposed casino would offer up to five table games and 250 slot machines.
The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, the gaming arm of the FSIN, currently operates six casinos in the province, employing more than 1,800 people, of whom 65 percent are First Nations. Half the profits generated by SIGA casinos fund development and cultural projects led by the First Nations Trust; one-quarter funds initiatives in casino host communities; and the other quarter goes to provincial community development corporations.
McMorris noted, “SIGA has been a strong partner of government for years and has been recognized time and time again for excellence in customer service, job creation and business achievement.” He added the conditional approval “represents a continued partnership with our First Nations when it comes to a well-managed casino gaming industry for Saskatchewan.”
Other SIGA casinos are Dakota Dunes near Saskatoon), Gold Eagle in North Battleford, Northern Lights in Prince Albert, Living Sky in Swift Current, Painted Hand in Yorkton and Bear Claw in Carlyle.
