MPP Arnott Calls for Halt on New Gambling Facilities

There should be no new gambling houses opened in Ontario until the Province studies the social impact of gaming, says Waterloo-Wellington MPP Ted Arnott.

“I continue to be concerned that too many Ontario families have been negatively impacted by gambling addictions,” Mr. Arnott stated. “I don’t think we’re doing enough to help solve this problem.”

Governments across Canada in recent years have become increasingly dependent on the revenues associated with casinos, racetrack slot operations, charity casinos, lotteries and bingos. Last year the Province of Ontario reported almost $2 billion in revenue from its gaming operations. “I’m also concerned that governments are becoming addicted to gaming as a means of generating revenue,” Mr. Arnott continued.

“It appears to me that Ontarians have more than enough opportunities to gamble and we should call a halt to opening any new gaming facilities. I believe we need to pause, and have a public inquiry to assess the problems associated with this massive expansion of gambling that we’ve experienced in recent years,” he observed.

On June 9th, 2004 Mr. Arnott introduced a Private Member’s Bill in the Ontario Legislature entitled the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation Amendment Act, 2004. This Bill would have the effect of preventing the Government from authorizing the establishment of any new gaming premises or expanding existing ones. The Government would also be compelled to appoint a commission under the Public Inquiries Act to study the negative social impact of excessive gambling.

“By introducing this legislation, I’m raising what I consider to be a serious issue requiring the Government’s attention. I was very encouraged by the preliminary response I received from members of the Legislature, and I plan to continue to encourage support for my Bill,” he concluded.

Mr. Arnott has two other Bills before the House. Bill 52, the Volunteer Fire fighters Employment Protection Act, supports double-hatter fire fighters. Bill 77, the Retail Sales Tax Amendment Act, would give families a tax break on the purchase of children’s booster seats.