Refined 5-point plan for gaming reform

Media release from Hospitality NZ

Hospitality New Zealand launches refined 5-point plan for gaming reform

A sharper focus on key issues such as venue remuneration and the ability to relocate gaming machines are the focus of a revamped Hospitality New Zealand 5-point plan, said Reg Hennessy, Hospitality New Zealand Board Member and Gaming Advocate.

A commission based payment system delivering fairness, transparency and probity was critical to ensure that the sector was fairly remunerated for raising significant funds for the community. Allowing gaming machines to be relocated to new venues would help the hospitality product being able to modernise and meet the needs of the developing new suburbs.

Mr Hennessy said since the previous 7-point plan was launched 18 months ago it had become clear that Local Government did not want a share of the proceeds to distribute and there was already reasonable alignment with Australia on technical issues. The revised 5-point plan would allow Hospitality New Zealand to concentrate on the five key issues having the most impact on gaming venue operators, said Mr Hennessy.

With the Government still considering the Flavell Bill, Hospitality New Zealand would be strongly advocating the 5-point plan being included in any gaming legislation being considered by Parliament. Venue operators are seeking fairness, clarity, transparency within the part they play in raising funds for the community, concluded Mr Hennessy.

ENDS

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