Mohawks Lash Out at Alberta

EDMONTON (CP) - An official with the Mohawk First Nation in Quebec is scoffing at allegations by Alberta's solicitor general that they're advising an Alberta Cree band on how to set up an Internet gambling hub.

Chuck Barnett of Mohawk Internet Technologies says it would be "moronic" for the company, which now hosts hundreds of Internet gaming sites, to assist a competing commercial enterprise.

In Barnett's words, "why would the Habs advise the Leafs, or the Sox advise the Yanks, on how to better organize their operation?"

Solicitor General Fred Lindsay told reporters earlier this week that his officials had become aware that the Mohawks were advising the Alexander First Nation, which is now offering to host Internet gambling web sites for a fee.

Lindsay also issued a warning to the Alexander band to "cease and desist" because it is illegal to set up gaming operations in Alberta without the province's approval.