Released on March 16, 2007
The provincial government today released a study examining the relationship between problem gambling and electronic gaming machines.
The study included a review of available research and the opinions of researchers, problem gambling specialists and problem gamblers. Although the study concluded the nature of the relationship between electronic gaming machines and problem gambling continues to be unclear, government is continuing to take steps to help reduce the incidence of problem gambling.
In response to the study, government will not approve any new casino sites and will not increase the cap on VLTs.
“Government must balance its responsibility to help those who experience problems with gambling while recognizing that the majority of the population gambles for entertainment and does so in a responsible manner,” Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Deb Higgins said. “Government carefully evaluated the results of the electronic gaming machine study in light of Saskatchewan’s gaming environment and recognizes that many of the findings of the report are already in place in Saskatchewan. Further, we will use the report findings to implement additional initiatives to help minimize the instances of problem gambling in Saskatchewan.”
These additional initiatives include not allowing electronic fund transfers on VLTs/slots, maintaining limits on the amount of money that can be preloaded into a VLT and the maximum bill denomination accepted. Government will not consider expanding the current hours of play for VLTs and will implement mandatory responsible gaming training for VLT site contractors. Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority will also work with casino operators to develop regulations regarding targeted marketing programs.
“Government will continue to monitor problem gambling research and work with problem gambling experts to determine if there are other initiatives or functions that may help reduce problem gambling in Saskatchewan,” Higgins said.
The study was conducted by the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC). RGC is a non-profit national organization that works with individuals and communities to address gambling in a healthy, responsible way.
The report is available at: www.slga.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
David Morris
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1721
Email: dmorris@slga.gov.sk.ca