NSW: More pokies in problem gambling areas a concern: Salvos

AAP General News (Australia)
04-23-2007
NSW: More pokies in problem gambling areas a concern: Salvos

The Salvation Army says an increase of pokies in problem gambling areas .. shows a
statewide cap on the number of machines isn't enough.

Publicans are reportedly transferring poker machines from country areas to Sydney pubs
.. particularly in inner-city and south-west areas.

Figures show despite a statewide cap introduced in 2001 .. the number of poker machines
in hotels in Sydney has risen from 13 thousand 318 to 13 thousand 499.

The Salvation Army's GERARD BYRNE says while caps reduced the number of machines statewide
.. numbers in problem areas have increased.







The Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing says the figures showing an increase in Sydney
only include hotels and not clubs .. where numbers have fallen .

It says the total number of machines has fallen by one thousand 300 in the past six years.

The office says the statewide cap is 104 thousand machines .. and there's currently
six thousand pokies less than that throughout the state.

AAP RTV nr/was/bart

KEYWORD: POKIES (SYDNEY)

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.