Authorities warn of popularity of poker

13 July 2007

BRUSSELS – The Board of Attorneys General is calling on the public prosecution departments to crack down on illegal poker games. Poker continues to grow in popularity, also among the youth.

Poker tournaments are only officially allowed to be organised in casinos, but the game is cropping up now in cafes, schools and on the internet. “That is illegal and hence a problem that has to be addressed,” says Etienne Marique, chairman of the gambling commission.

Games of chance are becoming more popular especially among young people. A study from the Research and Information Centre of the Consumers’ Organisations (OIVO) indicated that two in five youth have played for money at some point. Especially in Flanders games in which money is at stake are easily accessible for minors at locations that sell national lottery tickets.

Subject: Belgian news