The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) has been granted conditional approval for the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) to build and operate a new casino in Lloydminster.

The development process to move forward requires: a community consultation plan; municipal approval from the City of Lloydminster; and approval from the province and FSIN Chiefs in Assembly on an amendment to the Gaming Framework Agreement.

“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,” Minister responsible for SLGA Don McMorris said.  “Conditional approval of a casino for Lloydminster represents a continued partnership with our First Nations when it comes to a well-managed casino gaming industry for Saskatchewan.”

 

SIGA currently operates six casinos around the province – in Prince Albert, North Battleford, Yorkton, Swift Current, Dakota Dunes (south of Saskatoon) and on the White Bear First Nation near Carlyle.  SIGA has more than 1,800 employees, 65 per cent of whom are First Nations people.

“On behalf of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations we are very pleased with today’s announcement and the opportunity it brings to further deliver long term sustainable development through the Gaming Framework Agreement,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said.  “For the past 20 years the success of our SIGA casinos has been enabled by partnerships with local First Nations and Tribal Councils.  This helps to create First Nations economic opportunities that are based on our economic self-determination.”

“SIGA Casinos have a reputation for creating jobs and supporting surrounding developments that benefit both First Nations and Non First Nations alike,” FSIN Vice Chief Heather Bear said who is responsible for the Gaming Portfolio.  “We have been interested in expanding into 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.”

Net profits from SIGA casinos are split, with 50 per cent of net income provided to the First Nations Trust which supports economic development, social development, justice, health, education, recreation, culture and other First Nations initiatives.

Twenty five per cent of net profits go to the government’s General Revenue Fund to help support government priorities such as health, education and infrastructure and the remaining 25 per cent is directed to Community Development Corporations (CDCs).  CDCs fund economic development, social development, justice, health, education, recreation, culture and other related initiatives among First Nations and non-First Nations charities in and around the communities where SIGA casinos are located.

“SIGA has proven itself to be a strong corporate citizen in the six communities where their casinos currently operate,” Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young said.  “Their reputation of supporting local community groups and organizations will be a welcome addition in Lloydminster.”

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