Reducing casinos’ use of cash and increasing worker training are among provincial actions underway in response to recommendations to improve anti-money-laundering measures at B.C. gaming facilities.
The ministry’s review, released Thursday, confirmed the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) employs standard and appropriate anti-money-laundering strategies and the province’s Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) has the required level of expertise and is capable of providing oversight related to anti-money laundering and associated criminal activities at gaming facilities.
The review also identified ways to further strengthen anti-money laundering strategies. To minimize the likelihood of criminal attempts to exploit these limitations, the province has already begun work to address the recommendations.
A key objective is to transition toward greater use of electronic funds by making non-cash options more accessible and attractive to customers, while not discouraging legitimate play.
The review of anti-money laundering strategies at B.C.’s gaming centres was initiated in early 2011 by the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General to assess what strategies are in place and where opportunities exist for improvement.
The review is available online at: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming/reports/docs/rpt-pssg-anti-money-laundering-measures-feb-2011.pdf.
The action plan is available online at: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming/reports/docs/plan-anti-money-laundering-measures-aug-2011.pdf.