NIAGARA FALLS, ON – Tony Baldinelli, Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls and Special Advisor to the Conservative Leader on Tourism Recovery, released the following statement in response to reports that the federal Liberal government intends to incorporate important parts of a Conservative private members’ bill, C-218, which proposes to legalize single game sports betting in Canada, into a government bill:

“On February 25, 2020, my Conservative colleague Kevin Waugh, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Grasswood, introduced his private members’ bill, C-218, An Act to legalize single game sports betting in Canada, to allow the sports wagering industry to be properly regulated. Unfortunately, this legislation was left in limbo when the government shut down Parliament over the summer and showed absolutely no urgency in continuing the important work that is done through Private Members’ Business.

“Conservatives have been trailblazers on this issue, because we know it will lead to additional investments and help create good paying jobs, especially here in the Niagara region, which is home to two casinos with about 4,000 employees. I was proud to support the idea of legalizing single game sports betting in a statement I provided in the House of Commons on February 19, 2020. I also seconded Bill C-218 and gave a speech in support of its adoption, earlier this month.

“I am pleasantly surprised to see the Trudeau government proceed with critical components of our Conservative legislation. Conservatives have been advocating for months for policies and initiatives that are needed to support our tourism sector. Single-game betting offers an opportunity not only to increase revenue but increase fan and consumer engagement.

“Conservatives will continue to stand up for workers and jobs who have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. A repeal on single-game betting is good news for workers who rely on the sports and gaming industries in Niagara Falls, who compete with border states like New York, where single-game betting is already legal.

“I want to thank my Conservative colleague, MP Kevin Waugh, for his foresight, actions, and hard work on this important issue. Together, we have put pressure on the government, and are pleased to see they are finally taking action.”

-30-

Media Contact:

Billy Morrison
Communications Advisor and Legislative Assistant
Office of Tony Baldinelli, MP for Niagara Falls
Special Advisor to the Leader on Tourism Recovery
[email protected]