Gambling addicts can't police themselves

Gambling addicts can't police themselves
By Chris Derosenroll, Times Colonist


Re: "If you win, you lose," Dec. 2.

Regardless of whether B.C. Lottery Corp. committed to anything in the voluntary self-exclusion agreement or not, they did accept the addicted gamblers' money.

As such, BCLC is equally responsible for breaking the agreement and owes money to the gamblers. It is unfair to put all of the responsibility on addicted gamblers.

Gambling addiction is no less destructive or all-consuming than drug addiction, yet no one expects drug addicts to police themselves.

A gambling addict signing an agreement with BCLC not to gamble is like a drug addict signing an agreement with his or her pusher not to use anymore. You don't have to be insane to think the idea will work, but it helps.

Chris deRosenroll

Sooke