Pokie machines

An article (The Timaru Herald, August 10) suggested South Canterbury lost over $12 million in the last year from players using gaming machines, with the Timaru District highlighted as responsible for the majority of that ‘‘loss’’.

No mention was made of concerns for the more than $18m ‘‘lost’’ over the same period on Lotto and other gambling products, or that the money is not ‘‘lost’’ but forms one of the largest sources of funding for South Canterbury.

Pub Charity operates gaming machines in several venues in the Timaru District and they are not located in high deprivation areas as suggested, and the staff in our venues are some of the most competent and highly trained in harm prevention and minimisation in the country. The systems in place, including facial recognition, are recognised as industry leading.

Rather than money being lost those funds have allowed Pub Charity to distribute $2.3m in 119 grants to benefit the Timaru District community in the last 18 months. Highlights include a $350,000 contribution to the redevelopment of Fraser Park, but equally important are small grants like $1367 for Timaru Riding for the Disabled. In 2020 funds raised purchased a new Timaru-based Gen 4 Ambulance for St John.

Your article also made no mention of the $4m deducted by the Government in tax and duty over the same period returned to the community to fund health, education and social services, or the contribution toward problem gambling services.

Pub Charity policy is to return funds raised in its venues to the local community while providing a safe and entertaining environment for players. Whether directly or indirectly, whatever your views of gaming machines, you are enjoying the benefits of the proceeds.

Martin Cheer Chief executive Pub Charity Ltd