The National Gambling Board (NGB), often branded a toothless watchdog for its failure to stop illegal international online casinos from offering services in SA, is set to get its teeth.
This is one of the resolutions stemming from the National Gambling and Liquor Policy Council meeting that was held recently in Cape Town. The council said SA must have a clear national strategy for combating and eradicating illegal gambling in a cohesive manner with law enforcement agencies.
The council constitutes minister of trade and industry Rob Davies and the provincial MECs of economic development.
Davies says the council agreed that the extent of illegal gambling in the country should be assessed, while noting challenges identified in curbing this ill. He adds that the NGB has been mandated to prepare an action plan to curb illegal gambling and to report on this at the next meeting.
ITWeb recently reported that the NGB is powerless to stop international online casinos illegally offering their services to South African punters, because the Internet is virtual and the board does not have international jurisdiction.
It also emerged that, despite online gambling being made illegal last September by a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling, South Africans can easily access international casinos and place bets in rands. The NGB reportedly said that, unless a casino's server is located in SA, the body cannot shut it down.
Nonetheless, online gambling may still be legalised in the country as the Gambling Review Commission has recommended that online wagering be made legal, and more than 10 licences issued. However, the current framework is unlikely to be changed for at least another two years, due to the lengthy processes required.
The council considered the parliamentary report on the review of gambling that was presented to the select committee, and agreed that these processes must be respected. To this effect, the council affirmed that the next step will be public consultations with the provinces, driven by the National Council of Provinces.
The public has been urged to participate in the public hearings to ensure their views are presented. The meeting also emphasised the need for provincial licensing authorities to participate and enrich inputs, as well as recommendations.
According to Davies, the council reiterated that the regulation of bingo remains an element considered within the Gambling Review Commission report by Parliament.
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