Why? Our position, or my position, certainly on taxes, is that it is my understanding that lottery and gambling revenues are not currently taxed. My position is that the additional dollars that would be generated from taxing either lotteries or bingo, et cetera, would be inconsequential to the kind of fiscal framework that we are currently in and to the level of revenues that are required. Quite frankly, Mr Speaker, it is my understanding that most of these operations, the lottos and bingos, have done a lot for good causes and charitable organizations. I think at this time, if I was asked a question about whether or not I would want to tax and impede the ability of these charities to assist, whether it is the youth, whether it is kids going to hockey, my answer would be no. Not at this time.
John Todd on Question 107-13(4): Revenue Generation Through Taxes On Gambling
In the Legislative Assembly on January 23rd, 1997. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 107-13(4): Revenue Generation Through Taxes On Gambling
Question 107-13(4): Revenue Generation Through Taxes On Gambling
Item 6: Oral Questions
January 22nd, 1997
Page 176
John Todd Keewatin Central
See context to find out what was said next.