Jobs Created by Harness Racing Deal

Jobs are already being created as a result of Atlantic Lottery Corp.'s (ALC) business agreement with Maritime racetracks to revitalize the harness racing industry.

"Seven jobs have been advertised in Truro as a result of ALC's involvement," said Agriculture and Marketing Minister Ed Lorraine, as minister responsible for the province's harness racing industry. "This is what the agreement is all about --helping harness racing reach its potential so that jobs are created for Nova Scotians and to help us continue building a strong rural economy. I am sure we will be seeing the benefits of this agreement for a long time to come."

The Atlantic Lottery Corp. has advertised the following seven positions for Truro: operations manager, intermediate accountant, secretary/receptionist, promotions officer, promotions clerk, race secretary, and assistant race secretary.

These positions will provide the administrative support for Atlantic Lottery Corp.'s operations. Bert McWade, vice-president of harness racing with the corporation and a former manager of Champlain Raceway, will direct operations.

"This is great for Nova Scotia," said Mr. Lorraine. "I commend all parties for their hard work and commitment to making this happen and for acting so quickly to put the agreement into action."

Under the agreement, which was finalized May 5, 1998, the Nova Scotia Gaming Corp. authorized the Atlantic Lottery Corp. to work with racetracks in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island on the operation, marketing and promotion of harness racing. The lottery corporation will also be involved in the areas of classification, purse structure and wagering.

Nova Scotia has three harness racing tracks, in Inverness, Sydney and Truro.