The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority will launch online gambling in the province, through a new agreement between the the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and the provincial government.
Under the deal, the FSIN and province will split revenue from the online gambling site – which will include both online casino and sports betting – on a 50/50 basis. The site is expected to launch at some point in 2022.
The site will be managed by the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation (SaskGaming).
“This new online gaming site will be a safe, regulated and secure platform that will fall under existing responsible gambling practices,” Don Morgan, minister responsible for SaskGaming, said.
“This site will have measures and resources in place to support players and protect privacy, while also contributing to the social and economic wellbeing of Saskatchewan.”
SIGA Chair Chief Reginald Bellerose said the revenue from the new site would have a major and positive impact on First Nations communities in Saskatchewan.
“This is an important day for SIGA, as we continue to evolve with a changing gaming industry, and in our delivery of entertainment options for our customers,” he said. “The additional revenue opportunities from online gaming and sports betting, will only increase SIGA’s ability as a non-profit to positively impact employment, economic growth, positive community relations and financial self-reliance of First Nations in the province.”
Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Jim Reiter said the Indian Gaming Authority’s proven track record in gaming was a key reason why the agreement made sense.
“The Province and FSIN have had a long and successful history as partners in casino gaming,” he said. “Over the years, SIGA has earned their reputation as a top-quality gaming organization and we’re excited to move forward with them on this new venture.”
A number of provinces in Canada have recently taken steps to legalise online gambling, helped by the national government’s decision to repeal the ban on single-event sports wagering. Ontario is set to open up its market through a licensing system, and recently published updated versions of its standards for both sports betting and online gaming.