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Hamm to Cut VLT Numbers, but Rejects Ban28 June 2005NOVA SCOTIA, Canada -- As reported by the Globe and Mail: "As five heartbroken families tearfully explained yesterday how video lottery terminals pushed loved ones to commit suicide, Nova Scotia Premier John Hamm was adamant he would not ban VLTs, but only reduce their numbers. "The Conservative Premier said the province's plan to reduce its 3,845 VLT machines by 1,000 over the next five years and implement such safeguards as playing-time curfews by July 1, is enough to curb VLT addiction problems that range from family breakups to bankruptcy to suicide. "Repeatedly citing the 'astronomical' underground gaming industry in Ontario -- where 23,262 legal slot machines are confined to casinos and racetracks -- Dr. Hamm, a medical doctor, said he is sympathetic to VLT addicts and their families but won't allow unregulated gaming to run rampant. "...Dr. Hamm said: 'We're solving it the most efficient way. Look, we sell tobacco because we feel prohibition doesn't work. As we look around, illegal machines are far more harmful than a properly regulated industry and we will become a proper regulator.'..." |