New Lottery Financially, Operationally Viable

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corp. released more information today on its withdrawal plan from the Atlantic Lottery Corp. that shows a new provincial lottery is financially and operationally viable.

The new lottery would continue to offer a full range of products and services -- including prize amounts -- to Nova Scotians.

"We have done our homework and are confident that a new Nova Scotia lottery will be profitable and will mean more economic benefits and more jobs for Nova Scotia," said Dara Gordon, vice-chair of the Nova Scotia Gaming Corp.

Additional economic benefits are estimated at $5 million annually, she said. And the new lottery is expected to create upwards of 100 jobs, depending upon the business structure developed. These will be in addition to 60 Atlantic Lottery positions currently based in Nova Scotia.

"These Nova Scotia employees figure prominently in our planning," said Ms. Gordon. "They are an important group and will be key players in the Nova Scotia operation."

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corp. is working with the Atlantic Lottery Corp. and the other Atlantic provinces to develop a process that will allow for a smooth transition.

"In the meantime, it is business as usual," said Ms. Gordon. "All the lottery products and services Nova Scotians -- and retailers -- have come to expect will still be available."