The Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation has voiced disdain at what is dubbed a “new mega-casino in Toronto” following an announcement earlier this week that a $1bn entertainment resort will open in the region this summer.
MSIFN has stressed that it is “outraged by the disrespect shown to their First Nation” by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and Great Canadian Entertainment.
“We entered into our agreements with OLG and the government with a shared understanding that OLG and the government would act in good faith and in accordance with their honour of the crown obligations, and in particular their contractual obligations set out in the agreements,” said MSIFN’s Chief Kelly LaRocca.
“Once again, the government is acting without any engagement with MSIFN and is acting to disadvantage the Great Blue Heron Casino at MSIFN.”
The First Nation added that, ahead of mediation in the coming months regarding an expansion of gaming, this latest announcement represents a “disregard” for MSIGN and “agreements negotiated in good faith”. Mediation between the Ontario government and MSIFN is scheduled to commence this summer.
“We’ve been engaging with the government, OLG, and Great Canadian Entertainment on these issues for years, and finally we’ve reached the point of entering mediation in the coming months,” continued Chief LaRocca.
“Once again, however, the Ford government chooses to implement its decisions and ask questions later. It’s utter disregard for our First Nation and the honour of the Crown. We continue to focus our good faith efforts on the mediation and will brace for whatever comes next.”
Earlier this week, GCE has announced that the entertainment resort will be named Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto when it opens this summer.
