NDP, PCs breathe new life into Slots at Racetracks program

Reinstating the Slots at Racetrack program is one step closer to reality after a motion calling on the government to halt its OLG modernization plan was passed in legislature today.

New Democrat Leader Andrea Horwath brought forward the motion.

“The Liberals have made a mess of OLG modernization plans which were introduced without any consultation and have devastated communities across Ontario,” said Horwath in a press release. “Their plan isn’t working and now it’s time for the government to listen.”

The government’s cancellation of the revenue-sharing program has more to do with pushing casino development on urban centres than it does with making horse racing sustainable, she said.

“Kathleen Wynne’s OLG modernization plan is hurting horse-racing families across rural Ontario. A lot of damage has already been done, but it’s not too late to bring back a re-vamped, transparent, and fully accountable SARP program,” said Horwath.
It is now up to Wynne to respect the will of the majority of the Legislature, Horwath said.

“This vote is a wake-up call for Premier Wynne. Horse people have called on the government to restore the SARP program, and the majority of this Legislature agrees.
“Liberals need to rethink their plan to put horse people out of business by barging ahead with casino developments in unwilling municipalities.”

NortherLife.ca is working on local reaction to this development.