The National Indian Gaming Association Addresses the Abramoff Investigation

6/21/2005 5:43:00 PM


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To: National Desk

Contact: Suzette Brewer of the National Indian Gaming Association, 202-546-7711

WASHINGTON, June 21 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) today issued a statement in response to the Congressional and grand jury investigations centering on Jack Abramoff and his lobbying activities with Indian tribes.

"Tribal governments, like state and local governments, seek help through consultants and lawyers to protect their rights and further the goals of their communities," said NIGA Chairman Ernest L. Stevens Jr. "All parties involved in these relationships expect the highest level of representation, respect and due diligence from their attorneys and consultants. Representation of the government is a public trust and lawyers and lobbyist should be held to the highest standards of conduct. If a lawyer or lobbyist violates that trust and commits a crime in the course of representation then there is a legal framework in place to protect the client."

"The Federal Government has a trust responsibility to the tribes," said Stevens. "We have confidence that the United States will fulfill its trust responsibilities and investigate any allegations or charges of wrongdoing and prosecute the offenders to the fullest extent of the law. We believe it is important for both Indian tribes and the rest of America to be protected from fraudulent practices and we fully support the federal government's investigation and prosecution of these acts."

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The National Indian Gaming Association is a non-profit trade association comprised of 184 American Indian Nations and other non-voting associate members. The common commitment and purpose of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian people -- economically, socially and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policymakers and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development.

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/© 2005 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/