Operator News
Canada – Ontario casinos to close for three weeks
By Phil - 5 January 2022
Casinos in Ontario, Canada, including Casino Rama, Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino, have been told by the local government that they must shut down for three weeks as the province moves into another lockdown.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford confirmed the province was moving back into Step 2 of its reopening plan from January 5.
Gateway Casinos and Entertainment, who operates Casino Rama and other casinos in the province, said: “In response to the Ontario provincial government announcing a modified Step 2, all of our Ontario operations will be temporarily suspended effective Wednesday, Jan. 5. We understand that the closure is required at this time to work toward a healthy and safe community, and we will be ready to return to operations when it is safe, viable, and allowable to do so.
“The health and safety of all employees, customers and the community remains the highest priority at Gateway and we will continue to work with local and provincial governments; public health authorities and regulators to collaboratively prevent the spread of COVID-19. At this point we must adhere to the government guidelines and remain optimistic that this a temporary measure that will be lifted in 21 days.”
Richard Taylor President of Niagara Casinos, who operates Casino Niagara and Fallsview, said the company was in discussions with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation and the Public Health authorities to assess a reopening date in the following weeks.
Kevin Laforet, President of Caesars Windsor, said: “The health and safety of our employees and guests remain a priority and we look forward to welcoming you back at a time when it is safe for our community. Caesars Windsor looks forward to welcoming back our guests and employees soon. We continue to support the provincial government and our local public health unit in preventing the spread of COVID-19. We remain dedicated to providing a comfortable environment with rigorous safety protocols where the health and safety of everyone is a priority”, casino officials stated.
