Semiahmoo First Nation asserts right to be consulted about casino

Wednesday, April 25, 2018  

The Semiahmoo First Nation is objecting to a casino on its aboriginal territory in British Columbia, Canada.

The band wasn't formally consulted because its headquarters are deemed too far from the proposed facility, The Delta Optimist reported. But a letter sent to local officials said the site falls within its homelands.

"Semiahmoo hopes that you understand that they must protect their Aboriginal rights and title from infringement," the letter quoted by the paper states.

Under provincial law, the B.C. Lottery Corporation is required to consult with governments -- including First Nations -- about new developments. But the affected government must be within a "prescribed distance" of a facility, according to the Gaming Control Act.

Semiahmoo is based in Surrey, about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Delta. That's farther than the 5 kilometer limit set by the lottery agency, The Optimist reported.

Gateway Casinos and Entertainment is seeking to build the facility, which still must be approved at the local and provincial levels. A public hearing takes place next Tuesday, May 1.

According to World Casino Directory, B.C. is home to more than three dozen commercial gaming facilities. Another four are operated by First Nations, according to 500 Nations.

Read More on the Story:
First Nation opposes Delta casino (The Delta Optimist April 25, 2018)
Delta casino one step closer to approval (The North Delta Reporter April 9, 2018)