After the announcement that a $1bn entertainment complex will be opening in the region, the Mississaugas from Scugog Island First Nation have expressed disapproval at what they call a “new mega casino in Toronto”.
MSIFN stated that it was “outraged” at the disrespect shown to its First Nation by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and Great Canadian Entertainment.
“We entered into our agreements OLG/the government with a common understanding that OLG/the government would act in good-faith and in accordance their honour of crown obligations, in particular their contractual obligations,” stated Chief Kelly LaRocca.
“Once more, the government is acting in defiance of MSIFN and is acting against the Great Blue Heron casino at MSIFN.”
The First Nation stated that this announcement, which comes ahead of mediation regarding the expansion of gaming, is a “disregard” of MSIGN and “agreements made in good faith”. This summer, mediation between the Ontario government & MSIFN is set to begin.
“We have been working with OLG, the government and Great Canadian Entertainment for years on these issues, and finally we are at the point of entering mediation within the next months,” said Chief LaRocca.
“Once more, however, Ford government chooses not to implement its decisions, and will ask questions later. It is utter disregard for the First Nation and honour of Crown. We will continue to put our best faith efforts into the mediation and we will be ready for whatever happens next.”
GCE announced earlier this week that the entertainment resort would be called Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto upon its opening this summer.
