Niagara Falls NDP MPP is pressing the government on whether its read an unpublished report on problem gambling.
Wayne Gates noted in the Ontario legislature recently what's been happening with young people. "Gambling related ER visits nearly twice the expected levels, gambling helpline calls doubled, and gambling suicide have tripled."
Minister of Tourism Zee Hamid said there's been investment to fight addiction. "Last year alone, there was nearly $85-million for education, outreach, and addiction treatment delivered to partners like Responsible Gaming Council, and CMH."
Gates noted the minister did not answer as to if the report had been read.
He also said it appears the Attorney General was concerned the report could hurt Ontario's economic interests. "Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation says brick and morter casinos' revenue fell by $136-million last year, and 10,000 jobs have been cut across the province because of i-gaming."
The Minister of Tourism says the government has consulted with parents and health care professionals. "That's why we went from moving operators from grey market into the legal market so we can put guardrails around them, and support those who need help. To be clear, Ontario has some of the strictest guidelines."
He added celebrities are not allowed to promote online gaming anymore.
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