New Zealand
Gambling Policy Applauded
"The Green Party is
to be congratulated on its progressive gambling
policy," says John Stansfield, CEO for the
Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF).
"This sets a good standard for other parties
to match. It is a well researched and well informed
policy that would certainly help to eliminate gambling
harm," says Mr Stansfield.
"I am pleased to see that the Green's have
identified pokies as the cause of so much gambling
harm. It is perfect timing to coincide with Gamble
Free Day," says Stansfield.
The Green Party released their gambling policy
to coincide with Gamble Free Day, and have dedicated
themselves to reducing the harm being done to communities
by pokie machines.
PGF support the Green Party's gambling policy,
with three points deserving special attention.
"Of particular mention is their policy to
conduct a full and social economic and environmental
impact study of the impact of gambling on New Zealand
society.
"The public has a right to know the real impacts
of gambling on New Zealand society. Anywhere where
the public has been given the full information they
have adopted safer environments," he says.
The second point PGF refers to is the requirement
of the potential impact of all substantially new
forms of gambling or changes to current gambling
to be researched and legislated before being introduced
to the public.
"This point is very important as it future-proofs
New Zealander's against further innovations and
technological advancements in gambling. It is integral
to the Gambling Act's purpose and works to eliminate
gambling harm."
The third point by the Green's gives more authority
back to local councils and their community, relating
to gambling in their council areas.
"This is something that is allowing local
authorities should stand up and take notice of.
It puts local councils in control of gambling in
their region, and local communities have a greater
say about gambling in their community."
"We would be very interested to see what other
parties have to offer in their gambling policy,
and dare them to equal or better that of the Green
Party, and encourage the Government to introduce
such a progressive policy."
Free and confidential help is available nationwide
from the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand
by phoning 0800 664 262.
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