Gambling on Addiction : How Governments Rely on Problem Gamblers - The Fifth Estate

When it comes to gambling, Canadians have plenty of skin in the game. Last year, we spent about $13 billion on legal, government-run gambling. That's more than we spend on movies, hockey tickets, and Tim Horton’s -- combined.

Everybody knows that provincial governments in Canada love those gambling revenues, but the dirty little secret is just how much government casinos rely on problem gamblers to fill government coffers. Experts say that as much as 50% of that gambling revenue comes from problem gamblers. So who here is the real addict? Are provincial governments in Canada actually preying on gamblers?

Despite promoting responsible gambling, a new investigation by The Fifth Estate reveals how government programs are failing to keep addicts out of their casinos, while reaping a windfall from those who make it in.

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About the fifth estate : For four decades The Fifth Estate has been Canada's premier investigative documentary program. Hosts Bob McKeown, Habiba Nosheen, Gillian Findlay and Mark Kelley continue a tradition of provocative and fearless journalism. the fifth estate brings in-depth investigations that matter to Canadians – delivering a dazzling parade of political leaders, controversial characters and ordinary people whose lives were touched by triumph or tragedy.