Ontario tightens security around lottery retailers, adds background checks

TORONTO (CP) - Lottery retailers in Ontario will have until next January to register with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. The plan to tighten security around lottery ticket sales will also require retailers to undergo background checks and to agree to a new code of conduct.

The government promised to turn control of lottery regulations to the AGCO, an arms-length regulatory agency, after the ombudsman reported too many retailers were claiming big prizes.

Ombudsman Andre Marin issued a special report earlier this year stating that unscrupulous lottery retailers likely pocketed "tens of millions" of dollars worth of prizes unjustly.

Marin also found that the retailer-friendly Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. turned a blind eye to the problem.

Government Services Minister Gerry Phillips says he wants consumers to have confidence in Ontario's lottery system.

The AGCO already has responsibility for regulating the province's casino and charity gaming sector.

© The Canadian Press, 2007