Calgary casinos want smoking loophole closed

2008-08-19 14:35:30

A casino operator in Calgary has called for a loophole in the smoking ban to be closed, as it is harming business.

Although people are not allowed to smoke in public buildings inside the province, this restriction does not apply in first nation casinos.

This means that many gamblers are shunning gaming establishments such as the Deerfoot Inn and Casino, which is owned by Gamehost Income Fund.

Craig Thomas, chief executive of the organisation, said this is unfair, as it has created an "unlevel playing field".

Speaking to the Canwest News Service, he claimed that this has had a negative effect on traditional casino operators in the region.

"People who smoke like to gamble," Mr Thomas commented.

"Of course they'll go where they are able to smoke if the option is there for them to do it."

Mr Thomas' comments have been backed up by Sam Switzer, owner of the Elbow River Casino.

He claimed his establishment, which offers gaming facilities, food and drink and live entertainment, has seen profits drop by 25 per cent this year.