SkyCity winds back clock on smoking

The Green Party supports ASH and the Problem Gambling Foundation’s opposition to SkyCity Casino’s plan to open an enclosed smoking pokies balcony.

Green Party spokesperson for health and gambling Kevin Hague said it was very disappointing the casino had found a way to circumvent the law to target vulnerable gamblers.

“Essentially, it’s going to be an enclosed smoking area available to people who already have addiction issues.

“The last thing these people need is having two debilitative addictions dangled in front of them.

“Allowing this room to be legally deemed ‘outside’ because it has louvered windows, could set an awful precedent that would take us back to the murky smoke-filled rooms of the 70s.

“Of further concern, casino staff could also be exposed to dangerous second-hand smoke.”

At 12pm today, smoke-free advocates ASH are marrying a big cigarette and a pokie machine in a street theatre event outside the casino to protest the planned smoking pokies balcony.

Green Party MP Catherine Delahunty will be attending the event.

ASH Media Release: big-cig-to-marry-pokie-machine-at-skycity-on-gamblefree-day.htm

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