New Brunswick to Study Problem Gambling in the Province

The vast majority of Canadians gamble as a harmless recreational activity, but New Brunswick is conducting a study on problem gambling just to be on the safe side.

Gambling laws in Canada are generally much more liberalized than in the US. Land-based, online and mobile casino gambling and betting are viewed as legitimate recreational activities.

However, there are some voices in Canada who worry that gambling isn’t properly regulated, and that problem gambling may be a bigger issue than public officials are willing to admit.

The Province of New Brunswick has recently commissioned MQO Research to conduct a randomized telephone survey of 2,800 adults to assess levels of problem gambling in the province. The survey will be conducted this fall and results will be released in 2015.

Health Minister Victor Boudreau urged residents to take part in the survey: “This study will provide us with valuable information to better understand problem gambling in our province and to improve programs and services related to this issue.”

No cause for concern

Public officials have stressed, however, that the study is a regular, periodic analysis on gambling habits in New Brunswick and don’t reflect any perception that the situation is getting out of control.

The province commissioned similar studies in 1991, 1992, 1996 and 2001 as well. Few expect the results to make serious gambling news, as Canadians tend to do everything in moderation.