The Ontario government’s recent decision to terminate exclusive rights paves the way for potential new casinos in the Niagara Region. Premier Doug Ford introduced the Destination Niagara initiative in December, aiming to boost tourism by introducing multiple casinos, a theme park, and expanding the region’s airport. Ontario’s interim minister of tourism, culture, and gaming announced an agreement between the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. and MGE Niagara Entertainment Inc. to allow additional casino operators, relinquishing MGE’s exclusivity rights while retaining control of Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara. OLG plans to initiate a procurement process later this year to seek out new potential casino operators. Local opposition has been voiced regarding Ford’s proposal to install a second ferris wheel near the falls, with Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati expressing skepticism about the idea.
