An amendment to the Gaming Framework Agreement (GFA) has been signed between the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and the Saskatchewan government to establish a legal framework for a new online gaming site, which will be run by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA).

The amendment to the GFA also establishes a revenue-sharing arrangement between the two parties, marking a 50/50 revenue split between FSIN and the Province.

“The FSIN Chiefs-in-Assembly gave the mandate to secure this, and we are excited to finally have achieved it. Many hours, days, weeks, months, and years have gone into making this a reality. It makes it all worthwhile. This will bring in new revenue opportunities that will benefit our 74 First Nations communities. Even during the challenging COVID, pandemic, we are continuing to work hard to bring positive outcomes for our First Nations,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said.

“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. 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,” SIGA Chair Chief Reginald Bellerose said.

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“The Province and FSIN have had a long and successful history as partners in casino gaming. 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,” Jim Reiter, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority, said.

SIGA has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation (SaskGaming), which establishes the general terms of SIGA operating and SaskGaming managing the new online site, which will feature online casino games and sports betting. The site is anticipated to launch in 2022.

“This new online gaming site will be a safe, regulated and secure platform that will fall under existing responsible gambling practices. 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,” Don Morgan, Minister Responsible for SaskGaming, said.