Shinnecocks to Cuomo: Talk Indian casino now

ALBANY -- The Shinnecock Indian Nation fired back at Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo Tuesday, saying that, as a tribal nation, it should not have to wait years to talk about a potential casino on Long Island.

The tribe responded to comments from the governor a day earlier, in which he said it was "unrealistic" to talk to the Shinnecocks until -- and if -- voters approve a statewide referendum to amend the state constitution to allow casinos in New York. The earliest that could likely occur would be fall 2013. If approved, it would allow up to seven casinos in the state.

In a statement issued by its board of trustees, the Shinnecock Nation said it took issue with Cuomo's stance. The Shinnecocks noted they aren't a "gaming corporation with no community ties," but a sovereign nation that shouldn't have to wait for the outcome of the proposed constitutional amendment.

The governor, the Shinnecocks said, should begin talking with them now.

"What is 'unrealistic' is that we should have to wait two years for the possibility of the legalization of commercial gaming before a meeting of substance occurs with the governor to discuss Indian gaming, while commercial gaming corporations enjoy free access to present their gaming visions," the statement said.

"Before issuing statements of process . . . the governor of the state of New York should have sat down with the leadership of the Shinnecock Indian Nation and discussed issues as other governors have done," it said. "We continue to expect that he will do so."

The nation added: "It is quite evident that political leaders across the Island support our efforts."

Cuomo announced Friday that he had scrapped plans to allow Genting Berhad, a Malaysian casino company, to build the "world's largest convention center" at Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park.

Genting, which already operates video slots at Aqueduct, wanted to host a casino at the track as well, Cuomo said. But the governor said all would-be gambling companies will have to compete for the seven casino sites after a referendum is passed.

Cuomo's office didn't immediately return calls seeking comment.