NZ - Welcome decrease in pokie numbers
Press Release
Welcome decrease in pokie numbers [24.01.07]
“A decrease in the number of New Zealand pokies is welcome news,” says John Stansfield, CEO for the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF).
Latest figures from the Department of Internal Affairs show that numbers of pokies in pubs and clubs have decreased of 3.9% in the 2006 calendar year.
“We congratulate the Department for its work in regulating the sector and enforcing regulations on harmful venues. Local councils with a sinking-lid gambling venue policy - which prevents the replacement of machines that have ceased operating - are also congratulated. These councils are using the provisions of the Gambling Act to protect their communities by reducing the number of pokies,” says Mr Stansfield.
“However, there are still far too many pokies in our communities, often in the poorest areas and are causing too much harm,” he says.
“Problem gambling affects not only individuals, but also their partners and children, wider family/whanau, friends, colleagues and the wider community. Pokie machines account for 90% of people who walk through our doors for treatment.
“These machines were foisted on communities who were powerless to stop them. The Gambling Act provides local authorities with an opportunity to reduce the number of pokies by introducing a sinking-lid policy. We believe that it is their responsibility to take measures to reduce the number of pokies by having gambling policies that protect communities from these destructive machines.”
For more information please contact John Stansfield on (027) 448 1520.
