Press Room

Rules for First Nations casino spending expanded

CBC News
October 20, 2006

Alberta has expanded the rules on how First Nations can spend money made from casinos.
The new rules announced Friday by provincial officials coincide with the opening next week of a new casino on the Enoch reserve near Edmonton.

The $178-million River Cree Resort and Casino is the province's first aboriginal-run casino. 
Money earmarked for the Enoch First Nation will be spent through a charitable organization called Me'Chet Charities Limited.

Changes to the rules will allow the money to go toward addictions treatment, cultural events, elder and senior care, reserve infrastructure, community safety projects, and life skills training, said Stephanie Francis, a spokeswoman for the province.

"The Enoch Cree First Nation casino is going to provide significant benefits for the community, both economic and social," she said.

The complex will house more than just a casino. There will be restaurants and bars, including Tap 25, a sports bar and grill with 25 kinds of draft beer and 20 large-screen TVs.

Gambling revenue will be shared amongst the Enoch Cree Nation, the Alberta Lottery Fund, the band's business partner — Las Vegas-based Paragon Gaming Inc. — and Alberta's other First Nations.