Gambling head must step down

Judith Collins - National Internal Affairs Spokesperson

Problem Gambling Foundation director Ralph Gerdelan must step down while investigations are carried out into his spending, says National’s Internal Affairs spokesperson Judith Collins.

“Mr Gerdelan should stand down until cleared or otherwise by the investigation. His presence in the office will make it difficult for staff to provide information to the auditors.”

Judith Collins is the immediate past chair of the Casino Control Authority, and says there should have been more regular auditing of the Foundation’s activities.

“A large portion of the Foundation’s funding comes from the taxpayer, through the Lotteries Grant Board and levies on gaming. There should have been more regular auditing of how taxpayer money was being used.

“The best way forward now is for Mr Gerdelan to stand down until the investigation is completed,” said Ms Collins.

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