Government for the People reaches deals with Ontario race tracks
TORONTO — The Government for the People has kept a commitment to bolster support for Ontario's horse racing industry.
This repairs the damage done by the previous Liberal government when it cancelled the slots at racetracks program.
Agreements in principle have now been reached to keep slots operating at Kawartha Downs and Ajax Downs, and to provide additional funding to continue horse racing in Fort Erie and Dresden.
"This is another promise made, promise kept," said Finance Minister Vic Fedeli.
"We worked with our partners in the horse racing industry, and have agreed on packages which include funding and/or slots at racetracks. These packages are designed to directly support the horse racing industry and rural communities."
Ajax Downs will continue to have slots which will provide additional financial support to continue quarter-horse racing in Durham Region.
Fort Erie and Dresden race tracks elected to receive additional financial support for horse racing operations, but declined to accept slots at those facilities.
Discussions are ongoing with other racetracks in Ontario.
Quick Facts
- In May 2018, a new long-term funding agreement for the horse-racing sector was signed between the industry and OLG. The agreement includes funding for racetracks operations and purse support for horse people up to $105M per year for 19 years.
- The signatories of the long-term funding agreement (Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), Ontario Racing, Woodbine Entertainment Group and Ontario Racing Management Inc.) executed the agreement May 7, 2018. The agreement will come into effect on April 1, 2019.
Source : Ontario.ca