First Nation Threatens Legal Action Over New Ontario Gambling Market

Ontario’s well-publicized new gaming venture is threatening to be undermined by the state’s First Nation tribes. The indigenous group often share a fractured relationship with the country’s network of provisional governments, and Ontario seems to be the latest territory where tribal tensions have surfaced.

In a huge development for Canada’s gambling industry, the state is poised to launch an online gaming and sportsbook marketplace for the very first time. A colossal 30 operators have expressed an interest in servicing the area, with the sector set to ‘go-live’ at the start of April.

However, there are dissenting voices from First Nations leaders. Indeed, one group within the Indian community, who preside over the Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel positioned just north of Toronto, have declared the local provisional government’s decision to initiate the market as a ‘slap in the face’ to the First Nations of Ontario. Tribal communities are concerned that its establishment will compromise use of their own gambling services, and therefore lead to significant financial repercussions.

Canada’s Indian gaming stakeholders are not afforded legislative support, unlike their counterparts south of the border. Although Canada’s Supreme Court has always endorsed tribal sovereignty around self-governance and how it decides to utilize its lands, courtesy does not extend to its gaming enterprises. As the court does not see gambling as a ‘integral part’ of First Nations culture, there is suitably no protection to its industry.

Issues are further exacerbated by the fact that Canada’s national government withdraws itself from challenges situations such as these, as gaming regulation is a devolved entity in Canada’s political structure.

There have been examples where tribal groups have worked harmoniously with local officials, but, in Ontario at least, the relationship could be difficult to repair. First Nations have stated their intention to take legal action in their efforts to stop the launch of online gaming operations in the state.