STRONG INCOME AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES DEFINE FIRST FULL YEAR AS CIC CROWN

In its first full year as a subsidiary of Crown Investments Corporation (CIC), Sask Gaming's income before transfers was $50.8 million in 2009, up $2.2 million from 2008. This strong financial contribution, coupled with being a corporation recognized as a choice employer for its work practices, were the highlights of the 2009 Sask Gaming annual report, tabled in the legislature today. Sask Gaming paid $25.4 million to the provincial General Revenue Fund (GRF) and declared a dividend of $20.3 million to CIC.

"During 2009 Sask Gaming made significant contributions to Saskatchewan's strong economy," Minister responsible for Sask Gaming, Bill Hutchinson said. "But the corporation's success as an employer can not be overlooked. With 45 per cent of its workforce being under the age of 35 years and 42 per cent being Aboriginal employees, it's easy to see why Sask Gaming was recognized among Saskatchewan's Top 20 Employers in 2009."

Sask Gaming contributes 50 per cent of its profits to the GRF, which distributes gaming profits to the First Nations Trust, the Métis Development Fund and the Community Initiatives Fund. The impact of these contributions are felt throughout the province.

"In 2009, Sask Gaming continued its 14-year history of providing quality employment and an important revenue stream for the people of Saskatchewan," Sask Gaming President and CEO Twyla Meredith said. "We entertained nearly 3.3 million guests, employed more than 1,000 employees and generated gross revenues in excess of $130 million. In addition, we contributed more than $670,000 to support more than 300 charities. But our role goes beyond the numbers. We have created, and continue to create, long-term value for our employees, our guests, the community and our province by providing casino entertainment in a socially responsible manner."

Across Canada in 2009, the gaming industry experienced decreases in revenue. Although Sask Gaming saw decreases in some areas of its business, the corporation achieved its forecasted targets for income and dividends.

In addition to being an employer of choice for Saskatchewan, in 2009, Sask Gaming: strengthened its commitment to enhancing Saskatchewan and Aboriginal businesses through its procurement practices; initiated a Casino refresh project to enhance the guest experience; began collecting data to develop a baseline understanding of its Green House Gas footprint; and was recognized with the top honour in the Business Category at Canada's Diversity Awards.

Sask Gaming's mandate is to offer casino entertainment in a socially responsible manner, generating quality employment, economic benefit to the community and profit for Saskatchewan people in partnership with First Nations.

To view a copy of the 2009 Sask Gaming Annual Report, please visit www.SaskGaming.com.

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For more information, contact:

Felechia Brodie
Sask Gaming
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8515
Email: felechia.brodie@saskgaming.com
Cell: 306-529-1530