MCK issues statement regarding erroneous and inflammatory comments from Loto-Quebec

10/02/2013

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) announced today that it has taken issue with a Loto-Quebec spokesperson who, in a radio interview with a Montreal radio station, made erroneous and inflammatory statements regarding Kahnawà:ke jurisdiction in matters relating to Poker Houses licensed by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC).

While the KGC will address matters pertaining to its role as regulator, the MCK would like to assure clients, licensees and community members that it condemns a number of statements made in the radio interview.

The spokesperson repeatedly used the word “illegal” in referencing poker houses in the interview, as well as implying that KGC licensees lack integrity and honesty.

“Loto Quebec – or, at least, its spokesperson – needs to be reminded that Kahnawà:ke’s jurisdiction over gaming was first exercised in 1996, is affirmed in the Constitution Act and has never been challenged,” said Chief Gina Deer, who holds the gaming portfolio. "Kahnawà:ke has established itself as a world innovator in the online gaming industry and our poker gaming regulations are among the most stringent anywhere. To try to scare clients and potential clients from enjoying an exciting, well-regulated and fully legal experience within our Territory is both unacceptable and deplorable.”

“Kahnawà:ke’s participation in the gaming industry has created employment, economic development opportunities and has assisted in the community’s efforts to be fiscally self-sufficient,” she concluded. “We will continue to assert our jurisdiction in this area.”