News release

Gaming Corporation Releases Annual Report

Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (to Dec. 2012)

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation contributed $175 million to the province for government's programs and services in 2003-04, says the corporation's annual report, released today, July 12. That's down from the $191 million contributed in 2002-03.

About $156 million comes from the ticket and video lottery side of the gaming business and $25 million from the two casinos. About $6 million was spent on responsible gaming and other expenses, resulting in a payment to the province of $175 million.

Last year saw a notable decline in revenue growth across all business lines. Gaming Corporation officials said this was because of such things as product maturation, increased competition for the entertainment dollar and heightened responsible gaming initiatives.

In 2003-04, a framework was developed that will allow stakeholder consultations and public input on the future of the gaming industry. The consultations will provide the direction needed to develop a comprehensive gaming strategy for Nova Scotia. That strategy is expected to address the provincial gaming industry's economical sustainability, social responsibility and accountability. Discussions on the framework will take place over the summer, with a completed strategy targeted for early 2005.

The gaming industry in Nova Scotia accounts for 1,200 direct jobs and for more than $52 million in commissions to lottery retailers, many of whom are small business owners.

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation's annual report is available on its website at www.gamingcorp.ns.ca .