Gaming Companies should contribute more towards society well-being

Parliamentary Secretary Silvio Schembri said that gaming companies should be more proactive and give back to society. When addressing the 2nd edition of the Responsible Gaming Conference organised by Kindred Group, Parliamentary Secretary Silvio Schembri pointed out that while the gaming industry has become an important economic pillar, this Government does not turn a blind eye on the social challenges.

Schembri explained that only recently, €1 million of European Social Fund were allotted to the Responsible Gaming Foundation to the Take Action Project which is going to be carried out by the Responsible Gaming Foundation; a project that shall reach around 500 individuals and is aimed at training professionals and devising programmes to identify and assist persons at risk of gambling addictions.

He emphasised on the need for the Government to have more information in order to take more initiatives and this is where all stakeholders can play a crucial role. Schembri said that ‘we need everyone on board’.

The conference was addressed by Minister for Family, Children’s Rights and Social Solidary Michael Falzon via video message due to other governmental commitment. Minister Falzon emphasised on the importance in creating more awareness on gambling whilst instilling a sense of responsibility.

The Responsible Gaming Conference was hosted by Kindred Group together with Foundation for Social Welfare Services and the Responsible Gaming Foundation who this year is also a partner in the event. The purpose of the conference is to gather a wide range of academies, researchers, gaming operators, psychologists, regulators, authorities and treatment agencies and to create a constructive dialogue around responsible gaming.

Henrik Tjarnstrom, Chief Executive Officer of Kindred Group reiterated that dialogue can help to minimise the implications that surround gaming. He added that perception towards gaming is not a positive one and it will not go away. Thus it is important to have a better understanding on gaming to realise the change in betting behaviour while at the same time ensuring sustainability in the industry.