Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation Releases 2007-08 Annual Report

Balancing and managing gaming in a socially responsible manner and giving back to the community highlight the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation's (NSGC) 2007-08 Annual Report.

The report, released today, July 17, outlines how the corporation achieved its business results for the province.

"A critical part of the corporation's focus over the last year has been to take a leadership role in ensuring the safety and security of the industry and restoring customer confidence," said Marie Mullally, president and CEO. "The corporation also focused on giving back to communities with its Charitable Sector Support Program and encouraged employee to volunteer through its Social Responsibility Ambassador Program.

"The corporation provided $2 million for amateur sport through its Support 4 Sport Program, a series of themed ticket lottery products that give 100 per cent of profits to amateur sport in Nova Scotia."

Highlights also include the decision to proceed with the development of the Internet blocking software, BetStopper. The software helps parents prevent their children from accessing online gambling sites. The corporation also awarded the Informed Player Choice System contract. The Gaming Corporation continues to be a recognized world leader in responsible gambling.

Every dollar made by the corporation gaming is directed back to Nova Scotians to help fund government programs and services. This year, the payment to the province was $153.6 million, down from $162.3 million in the previous year. This is primarily due to a drop in lottery ticket sales.

Beyond the revenue gaming provides to the province, the industry also accounts for about 1,000 direct jobs in Nova Scotia and supports about 1,600 retail establishments, many small businesses in rural Nova Scotia. This year, the corporation paid more than $42 million in commissions to retail business owners.

In 2007-08, the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation also invested more than $7.7 million in responsible gambling programs and problem gambling treatment and prevention, continuing its commitment to being a world leader in this area.

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation Annual Report is available online at www.nsgc.ca .