The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Chiefs-in-Assembly voted to ratify an amendment to the 2002 gaming framework agreement today that will allow the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) to expand into the Lloydminster gaming market.

Making it official: the FSIN has voted to ratify an amendment to the gaming agreement in order for SIGA to expand into the Lloydminster market. Supplied

"A lot of hard work was put into this project by the host Border Tribal Council, SIGA, the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority and the FSIN," said FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. "The Lloydminster gaming expansion is another milestone for our Indigenous gaming industry. This is a good example of our inherent and Treaty right to economic development working to build prosperity for our people.”

Related: Conditional approval granted for Lloydminster casino project

“This casino development marks the continued partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan and our province’s First Nations people,” Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Jim Reiter said. “As partners we are equally committed to working together to ensure all people in our province benefit from a well-managed gaming industry.”

"The gaming industry has been really good to our communities. Many of our people have found good jobs that contribute to skill development and employability of indigenous and non indigenous people alike," said FSIN Vice Chief Heather Bear. "Our SIGA run casinos adds millions of dollars to local economies and provide millions more in sponsorship support to community events and organizations. I'm confident the Lloydminster casino will make an immediate impact in the community."