Alberta cuts funding for responsible gambling group with private iGaming in mind
The province is currently considering legislation that would allow private companies to conduct iGaming operations within Alberta.
Key Points
- The Problem Gambling Resources Network stated that its had a government funding agreement for over 30 years, but will likely have to cease operations as a result
- The non-profit organization provides education and resources for players struggling with gambling addiction
Government officials in Alberta have decided to cut funding for a non-profit organization that provides education and resources for players struggling with gambling addiction as the province also continues to weigh legislation that would allow for private iGaming.
The Problem Gambling Resources Network, located in Edmonton, stated that without the annual $130k in funding provided by the government, the organization will likely have to cease operations.
Executive Director Ray Reshke explained that the non-profit has had a government funding agreement of some sort for over 30 years, but were then notified the Alberta government would be ending its current three-year contract.
The Network helps players enroll in the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis voluntary self-exclusion program, which also bans them from entering casinos. Reshke specifically highlighted the Network’s education program, where paid volunteers that have suffered from gambling addiction provide presentations in environments such as schools and workplaces.
Good to know: The University of Alberta launched a new gaming course to Canadian residents within the province on October 28
Reshke also explained that he was told the Network would be cut because it fails to provide direct services, the same reasoning given to four disability advocacy groups which saw its funding cut during January as well.
Alberta is currently considering legislation that would allow private companies to begin iGaming operations in the province, similar to that of the path taken by the province of Ontario. Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally oversees regulation of the province’s gambling industry and stated that while no final decisions have been made, following the Ontario model would make iGaming safer in Alberta.
The government-owned Play Alberta represents the only licensed iGaming operator conducting business in the province as of now, but sites that have offshore licenses are also accessible to residents.
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