The Canadian Gaming Association welcomes the Ontario government’s move to regulate online gambling in Ontario

Progressive Conservatives also reaffirm support for single-event sports wagering

The Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) welcomes the announcement by the Ontario government to establish a regulatory system for online gambling in Ontario to give consumers access to “safe and legal gambling options”.

Ontarians are spending in excess of $500 million annually gambling with on offshore websites, and the CGA applauds the government’s commitment in the budget to create a “competitive market for online legal gambling that will reflect consumer choice while protecting consumer who play on these sites”.

The CGA has long advocated for online gaming to be regulated in Canada. “We have seen significant growth in the amount of wagering with offshore websites and we welcome the move to create a regulatory system for offshore sites to better protect consumers,” said Paul Burns, President & CEO, CGA.

The CGA looks forward to participating in the government’s planned consultation with industry stakeholders and shares Ontario’s commitment to develop a market that reflects consumers preferences, delivers an entertaining gaming experience, and ensures appropriate safeguards are available.

Mr. Burns also thanks Finance Minister Vic Fedeli for the Ontario government’s ongoing pressure on the Federal Government to amend the Criminal Code to permit single-event wagering. “We share the Minister’s view that it’s time to end the gambling prohibition era and allow sports bettors access to the product they want” said Burns.

About the Canadian Gaming Association:
The Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) is a national trade association that works to advance the evolution of Canada’s gaming industry. The association’s mandate is to promote the economic value of gaming in Canada; use research, innovation, and best practices to help the industry advance; and create productive dialogue among stakeholders. Visit www.canadiangaming.ca to learn more about the CGA and gaming in Canada.

SOURCE Canadian Gaming Association