The gambling regulatory body of Quebec is engaged in negotiations with the Montreal Canadiens to potentially set up a 'Mini Casino' at the Bell Centre .
This suggested venue will be designed to host Poker gaming tables , slot machines , and sports betting stations .
As the discussions are still ongoing, nothing has been finalized, and significant steps remain before the 'Mini Casino' can become a reality.
Considering the possible introduction of a 'Mini Casino' at the Bell Centre,
Jean-Francois Bergeron , CEO of Loto Quebec , stated this week that they are actively discussing the addition of a compact casino to the popular Bell Centre .
The proposed facility will feature gaming machines , sports betting terminals , and poker tables situated within the 1909 Taverne Moderne restaurant.
The casino This establishment is designed to accommodate guests attending events at the Bell Centre , while other patrons will also be permitted and can enter the casino through a designated street-level entrance .
In a recent interview, Jean-Francois Bergeron mentioned, “While we aren’t fully prepared yet, we are indeed in talks.”
Given the intense opposition faced in the past, the casino is expected to attract considerable attention. A notable example is the failed attempt to launch a $1.1 billion casino in Griffintown back in 2006.
Valérie Plante , the Mayor of Montreal, has expressed openness to the concept but emphasized that the casino must first gain the green light from Public Health Montreal , which had previously raised serious concerns regarding the Griffintown project.
Finance Minister Eric Girard has also contributed to the conversation by suggesting that the Quebec government might impose two key requirements : endorsement from Public Health and a reduction in the number of video lottery terminals across Quebec.