News release

Nova Scotia to Exit Keno

Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (to Dec. 2012)

After consulting with stakeholders, the province has decided to put an end to Keno.

"Although the social responsibility assessment was careful and thorough, concerns persist among some stakeholder groups. Even on its own terms, Keno has not been a success," said Graham Steele, Minister responsible for Part I of the Gaming Control Act. "Revenue has fallen 80 per cent below expectations and in order for the game to have even the possibility of breaking even, further spending would be required for capital and marketing.

"For all of these reasons, and after careful consideration, we have come to the conclusion that it's time to pull the plug on Keno in Nova Scotia."

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation will work with its operator, Atlantic Lottery Corporation, to exit the game by Oct. 22, providing retailers with a reasonable 30 day notice period.

It will cost $3.4 million to exit the game, which will come out of general gaming revenues paid to the province.

Keno was introduced in about 180 bars and restaurants on March 2, 2009.