Minister Assumes Responsibility of Gaming Foundation

Changes have been made that will allow the Nova Scotia Gaming Foundation to take better advantage of the Department of Health's expertise in treatment of problem gambling. Responsibility for administering the foundation will be transferred from the Nova Scotia Gaming Corp. to the minister of health effective today, Dec. 8.

The new arrangement will also have a greater focus on promoting the foundation to the community.

The Nova Scotia Gaming Foundation was established in March 1998 to support projects that relate to the research, education or treatment of problem gambling. It often relied on input from the Department of Health when considering applications. Funds from the foundation are available for project specific funding.

"The gaming corporation was responsible for the gaming foundation as an interim measure only," said Health Minister Jamie Muir. "The department will now be in a better position to provide support to a board of directors who will ultimately be responsible for approving proposals."

The minister of health will appoint a new board of directors shortly.

The gaming corporation is working with the Department of Health to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer of all matters related to the foundation, including files, correspondence, records, applications and requests.

Questions concerning status of applications should be referred to Addictions Services at the Department of Health.

The foundation is funded through one per cent of total VLT retailer commissions which are then matched by the gaming corporation.