The Chair of the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority board says although COVID-19 has been a big setback for their casinos, they will rebuild and are looking to expand in the future.

Chief Reginald Bellerose explains that SIGA is a non-profit with their revenue going to the First Nations Trust which is for Saskatchewan’s 74 First Nations, to their Community Development Corporations and to the province.

He says SIGA was formed to promote employment.

Bellerose says one goal is to own all of the casinos in this province.

Right now, the Authority owns all but 2, in Regina and Moose Jaw.

The other interest is online gaming.

Bellerose believes Saskatchewan people are spending money online, but the benefits aren’t staying in this province, so that could be another avenue for them.

All of SIGA’s casinos opened Thursday night at 6, after being shut down during the pandemic.

There is reduced capacity because of physical distancing and all public health guidelines are in place.

(CJWW)