Doug Ford and Niagara's Mayor Demand Changes at the Casino
7 Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Niagara Mayor Jim Diodati expressed the need for casino reform in the Niagara region to maximize gaming potential.
Ford emphasized that the province is discussing with casino operator Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment the possibilities of improving Niagara's tourism appeal. "There is a huge opportunity here with 11 million tourists a year," said Ford, emphasizing the need to renew the region.
Niagara is now home to two casinos owned by the Ontario government and operated by Mohegan. Ford wants to change the deal to encourage more casinos in the region. Mayor Diodati believes that the expansion of the casino will contribute to the influx of tourists from the United States.
However, Canadian Gaming Association president Paul Burns says infrastructure needs to be addressed first to promote tourism growth. He believes improving roads and transport links is more important than new casinos.