A few parents in Russell are concerned about the presence of gabling ads in Ontario and their impacts on youth.

The three parents in Russell, whose names are being kept anonymous due to privacy concerns, asked why the online gambling ads, which they believe are ubiquitous on television and online, are being allowed. They worry about the potential for addiction to gambling and the attraction to minors now that it is very easy to gamble online. The parents questioned if gambling should be promoted at all, particularly by a government agency.

CJRO asked the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario to respond to that concern. AGCO had already publicly stated it is reconsidering some advertisements, particularly those with celebrities (e.g. Jamie Foxx), sports personalities (e.g. Wayne Gretzky) and those which may appear to appeal to children or minors, using such marketing devices as bright colours.

AGCO did not wish to participate in an interview, but replied by email.

"Thank you for your inquiry. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is currently in the stakeholder consultation phase, as is customary before considering any regulatory changes," the statement to CJRO read. "You can find information...on the proposed changes to Standards that would restrict athlete and celebrity participation in internet gambling advertising. Following the consultations, we will be pleased to provide you with information if there are any changes to the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming."

CJRO then reached out to Advertising Standards Canada, aka "Ad Standards," for its take. CEO Catherine Bate explained that they examine ad content based on guidelines, although not frequency (which she said is often complained about) but if a product is legal Ad Standards does not forbid its advertising. She explained how the Canadian Code of Advertising Standards looks for ads which are contrary to Code. However, the agency is keeping a close eye on advertising around gambling as they are aware of consumer concerns, including on social media.

For more information, see adstandards.ca.

Here is our interview with Bate: