Alberta considers online gambling

ALBERTA – As reported by the Edmonton Sun: "The province may roll the dice on Internet gambling.

"A spokesman for the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission yesterday said the organization has commissioned a poll to determine Albertans' feelings about online gambling.

"The commission is gauging whether to set up Internet gambling shops in the province.

"The survey began with a telephone poll and now 800 Albertans are being contacted online.

"…The poll is looking at poker, bingo and blackjack.

"…Carlyle-Helms said that if the province were to allow Internet gambling sites to be based out of Alberta - with the government taking a cut of the action - it won't happen for a long time.

"In November, it was projected Alberta would take in $1.4 billion from gambling in the province this fiscal year…"