Catholic Archbishop calls for ne

The Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, Dr George Pell, said today that new measures should be taken to tackle problem gambling. Such measures should include (1) a prohibition on advertising poker machines in large scale promotions involving prestige cars and luxury holidays, and (2) a major commitment to research on patterns of problem gambling and ways to reduce it.

"Although progress in New South Wales on problem gambling had been ground-breaking and encouraging, additional measures are still needed," Dr Pell said.

"I very much share the Parliament's determination to reduce the suffering and hurtand I think efforts to date are on the right track. I also commend the efforts already being made by the clubs, casino and hotels. At the same time, I believe there remain some opportunities that should be pursued," he said.

"Playing poker machines is a pastime enjoyed by many people with safety and responsibility. However we cannot ignore the plight of those who get themselves into strife. These people tend to be particularly susceptible to advertising and promotions. In a free society we tolerate gambling, but people's gambling behaviour should not be driven to excess by advertising and promotions, which are, after all, driven by the profit motive, " Dr Pell said. "There is no need for 24 hour gambling anywhere."

Dr Pell stressed the importance of further education and research initiatives.

"People who play poker machines need to be made more aware that the most they can expect in the long run is fun and entertainment and not windfall gains."

"Clearly, we need to understand more about what can be done to reduce the risk in playing poker machines, and I strongly suspect a better level of understanding about how machines actually work on the vulnerable would help," Dr Pell said.

Dr Pell said he had already met with Clubs NSW and hoped to hold further discussions with clubs and hoteliers to better understand issues relevant to New South Wales. "For example, I know that clubs are not-for-profit bodies and perform an important role in connecting and supporting local communities."

"I appreciate and am grateful for these community benefits," Dr Pell said.

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