New casino exceeding First Nations hiring expectations

A new resort opening this month near Edmonton will be one of the largest employers of aboriginal people in Alberta, saysthe general manager.

The $178-million River Cree Resort and Casino on the Enoch Cree Nation will have about 200 First Nations employees, making up about one-third of the staff.

"Our total hiring objective was somewhere around 100 to 125 and we have completely exceeded that," said Brian Lee, the resort's general manager.

"We do believe we are one of the largest First Nations-aboriginal employers in all of Alberta and we haven't even opened yet."

'Enoch's standing tall'

Shawna Sharphead is in training to be a blackjack dealer. She used to work at a casino in the U.S., but moved back to Enoch to work at the River Cree resort.

"It's a step up for our community. It gives our people and our community the opportunity to expand and carry on with traditions," she said.

"Many of the tribes have seen part of their band members fall and Enoch's not going to fall. Enoch's standing tall. I have to say I'm proud to be a tribal member from Enoch."

More aboriginals are expected to be hired in the next few weeks. The nine-storey Marriott hotel and sports complex opens Oct. 26.