The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Executive says it is imperative that First Nations are consulted by the province prior to the implementation of public health orders that significantly impact and negatively affect First Nations communities and businesses. All casinos in Saskatchewan are set to close Saturday and remain closed until January 15th.

FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says, “Our First Nations communities are the beneficiaries of the revenues generated by SIGA casinos operating across the Province and these closures are having substantial and potentially lasting impacts within the First Nations,” He says, “Our casinos have some of the highest health and safety regulations.”

Cameron says SIGA casinos have proposed to operate at 12% of facility capacity, in comparison to 25 or 50% limits placed on other enterprises.

Cameron says, “Our First Nations deserve fair and equitable treatment and opportunity as other businesses in the province,” He points to other gaming machines like VLTs hosted in hotels, bars and restaurants, remaining open.