The First Nations Trust and the Community Development Corporations, which rely on funds from the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority had their bank accounts depleted during COVID-19 and with casinos closed until Thursday, there was no revenue coming in for SIGA as a business or for the Trust or CDCs.

That from Chief Reginald Bellerose, who is also Chair of the SIGA board.

He says the money goes to the 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan for things like economic development, social programs, education and the development and maintenance of community infrastructure.

A negotiating team met with the provincial government and the result is $43.4-million in financial support.

$36.6-million will be distributed through the First Nations Trust and $6.5-million to the Community Development Corporations.

Bellerose says now that SIGA’s casinos are open again, although with safety protocols in place and at a reduced capacity, the rebuilding process can begin.

(CJWW)