Problem Gamblers Sue Canadian Casinos

Treatment and therapy are the appropriate measures, not legal action and punitive suits.

In Canada, a class action lawsuit is being pursued against the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation alleging that billions of dollars in damages and punishment are due problem gamblers who have asked to be excluded from venues, but were later admitted.

The suit, which has yet to be certified by a court, is in the amount of $3.5 billion. The initial complaintants, who have registered in the number of several hundred, signed up to voluntarily ask that they be barred from Ontario gaming establishments on the grounds that they are problem gamblers.

The self-exclusion program was begun in 1999, and has around 10,000 members.

Both the casino management at Niagara Falls and the office of the Gaming Commission insist they vigorously enforce the program to the best of their abilities. Security personnel have extensive training in identifying self-excluded individuals and recognizing problem gambling.

However, to ask that security be able to identify 10,000 individuals, many of whom are determined to find a way to disregard their own decision and reenter casinos or slot parlors, is placing too much burden on the casinos.

Further, as Online Casino Advisory has covered, recent studies indicate problem gambling is not a cause but a symptom of deeper emotional and mental difficulties, and treatment for these issues is the proper way to address compulsive gambling.

If one were an alcoholic, could every bar and liquor store be expected to identify that person and refuse service? Treatment and therapy are the appropriate measures, not legal action and punitive suits.