The Snuneymuxw First Nation are officially the new owners of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino in Victoria.
The nation’s Petroglyph Development Group announced the deal to purchase the businesses in June from Great Canadian Entertainment. This week, the group announced the sale had cleared all regulatory hurdles and is now complete.
Snuneymuxw Chief Mike Wyse says his nation’s leadership have been working for decades towards this moment, and are thrilled to now secure businesses that will strengthen the nation for generations to come.
“We celebrate the closing of our two casino acquisitions and our continued progress toward building a strong Snuneymuxw economy,” he said in a statement. “For decades, Snuneymuxw leadership has worked tirelessly toward this moment, recognizing the connection between a strong economy, self-determination, and the foundation of nationhood. Today, we honour the achievements of those who came before us by securing businesses that will strengthen our Nation for generations to come.
“Thank you to the PDG and Great Canadian teams for your exceptional work. We look forward to a rewarding partnership with the B.C. Lottery Corporation, driving economic growth for the Nation and Province.”
Ian Simpson, Petroglyph’s CEO, says the acquisition will ensure benefits stay local, and will fuel the Island’s economy while strengthening the Snuneymuxw Nation.
The values of both casino sales have not been made public.
