Gateway's Casino Rama to remain closed in Ontario

Rama First Nations officials announced last week that plans were underway to reopen Casino Rama in Orilla, Ontario. While they stated the casino could be operational within 10 days, Gateway Casinos and Entertainment cautioned that it could take longer and the date of reopening would be decided by them as the operator, OrilliaMatters reports. On Monday, Gateway announced those plans have been put on hold.

"In light of the increase in communities moving into further restrictions across the province and in collaboration with Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Casino Rama Resort will remain closed until further notice," the company said in a statement. "Please continue to watch our website and social channels for updates. We look forward to welcoming you back when the time is right."

Casino Rama, and all casinos in the province, were shut down in mid-March by Ontario Lottery & Gaming. Many of the smaller casinos have reopened over the past several weeks. However, Gateway noted it didn't make financial sense to reopen a large facility like Casino Rama when only 50 people - including staff - could be inside the building at any time.

When it was announced last week that Casino Rama was making plans to reopen, it was going to be on a very limited basis, by invitation-only. Also, there would be no table games operating and no food or beverage service. But at least for now, as lockdowns take effect in GTA municipalities and Simcoe Muskoka moves into orange restrictions, the gaming facility east of Orillia will remain shuttered.