Headline: Gaming tables in SkyCity deal have huge potential for harm
The lower number of pokies is actually a smokescreen for the gaming tables that will lead to a whole new set of negative addiction problems
The Key Government has downplayed the extent of the increase in gambling harm that will flow on from their dirty deal with SkyCity, Green Party gambling spokesperson Denise Roche said today.
The 12 extra automated tables included in the SkyCity deal will significantly increase the opportunities for gambling. The 12 extra tables allow up to 20 people per table to play automated games from a central computer.
“The initial estimates of the SkyCity deal involved up to 500 pokie machines,” Ms Roche said.
“Despite SkyCity and the Government trying to play down this number, the addition of the gaming tables on top of the 230 extra pokie machines means this number has turned out to be nearly accurate.
“John Key’s statement at the time the SkyCity deal was announced that the Government’s sinking lid policy on pokies is closing down gambling opportunities is disingenuous if the gaming machines are factored in.
“The lower number of pokies is actually a smokescreen for the gaming tables that will lead to a whole new set of negative addiction problems.
“Not only is the deal between SkyCity and the Government an unconstitutional attempt to block future Governments from regulating gaming for the next 35 years – it now turns out that it is far worse for problem gambling than initially presented.
“SkyCity’s deal with the Key Government will lead to a massive increase in problem gambling unless it is stopped,” Ms Roche said.
Note: The Green Party believes gambling laws should not be up for sale. We are campaigning to stop the Government completing this deal and have a petition calling for this deal to be scrapped.
Link to petition: http://www.greens.org.nz/gambling
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