FSIN, Saskatchewan. Government announces SIGA as operator of new online gaming website

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and the Government of Saskatchewan are rolling the dice for a new partnership.

An amendment to the gaming framework agreement was signed Thursday afternoon between the government and the FSIN to create a legal framework for a new online gaming site.

The website will be operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) with the establishment of a revenue sharing agreement between the FSIN and the government.

According to a statement from SIGA, the agreement will set a 50/50 income split between the two parties.

“This will be a positive benefit for our 74 First Nations,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said in Thursday’s announcement at the First Nations University of Canada in Regina.

“It’s a historic agreement. The first of its kind not only in Saskatchewan, but in Canada.

The website will offer both online casino games and sports betting.

“The province and the FSIN have a long and successful history as partners in casino games,” said Jim Reiter, Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority.

“Over the years, SIGA has earned their reputation as a quality gaming organization and we are delighted to move forward with them in this new venture.”

The contract provides for five years of exclusivity for SIGA for the operation of the site.

SIGA said it was an opportunity for them to evolve and change the gaming industry.

“The additional income opportunities from online gaming and sports betting will only increase the ability of SIGA, as a non-profit organization, to positively impact employment, economic growth, positive community relations and the financial autonomy of the First Nations of the province, ”said SIGA President Reginald Bellerose. noted.

The announcement also includes the signing by SIGA of a letter of intent with the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation to establish the terms and conditions of operation of SIGA and SaskGaming for the management of the new online site.

SIGA will submit a request for proposal to the public. A joint adjudication process will take place to determine the successful candidate for the project.

Officials expect the website to be active next year.