Saskatchewan’s gaming field has been through a lot over the past months due to the unprecedented situation on a national and provincial scale. Casinos Regina and Moose Jaw recently announced some 327 staff members saw their layoff notice take effect. Those employees were added to previously laid-off individuals. The change came into effect on December 21.
The layoffs are temporary and they aim to make it possible for the local gambling field to continue its operation in a regular fashion once the unprecedented situation is resolved. The two casino locations are currently working on their temporary closure once again, which mandated the layoff of these workers.
Temporary Layoffs
It should be noted that some 238 of them are unionized, whereas the remaining 89 are not associated with a labor union. Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation spokesperson Shanna Schulhauser made it clear that the most recent employees’ layoffs come in accordance with the public emergency provisions part of the Saskatchewan Employment Act.
Protection of both casino workers and patrons is of utmost importance for the Saskatchewan government, especially given the current situation, which is why the closure of the two gambling hotspots became mandatory once again. Back in March, they witnessed the first temporary closure, and back then some 251 permanent staff members were laid off. The new 238 individuals add to them in the most recent wave of layoffs. Mr. Schulhauser shed more light on the current situation.
She pointed out that when compared to the experience back in March, this closure is much more needed, as Saskatchewan Gaming is experiencing significant trouble due to the limitations. Physical distance makes it possible for a smaller number of individuals to make their way at the casino locations and gamble in-person, which results in a smaller gaming revenue generated. The cost of overseeing these venues at this point surpasses the revenue.
Casino Closures
As a result of the situation, the gaming leader had to come up with the most comprehensive plan for action, protecting its future operation. This included measures directly affecting casino staff members, the management of these gambling hotpots, as well as corporate changes. What should be pointed out is that the temporary layoff will cover the upcoming 28 days, as the provincial government has mandated.
Once this period is over, an expert evaluation is projected to take place, making it clear whether in-person gambling among other businesses could return to their daily operation. The casino closures will affect both commercial and tribal casinos. The latter are overseen by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority.
The seven venues in question are old Eagle Casino in North Battleford, Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert, Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton, Bear Claw Casino on the White Bear First Nation near Carlyle, Dakota Dunes Casino on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation south of Saskatoon, Living Sky Casino in Swift Current, as well as Gold Horse Casino in Lloydminster.
