FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers will be asked to participate in a government telephone survey for the purpose of examining the prevalence of gambling and problem gambling in the province.
The survey, which will be conducted by MQO Research between the end of October and mid-December, will randomly select a representative sample of 2,800 residents aged 19 and older.
The data gathered will be compared with the results of a similar study conducted in 2009. The survey will also measure the recollection of the Problem Gambling Awareness campaign launched last March by the Department of Health.
All responses and information gathered will be confidential and published results will be a summary of findings.
“I encourage New Brunswickers to participate in the survey,” said Health Minister Victor Boudreau. “This study will provide us with valuable information to better understand problem gambling in our province and to improve programs and services related to this issue.”
Four gambling-related general population prevalence studies have been conducted in the province to date. These studies were conducted in 1992, 1996, 2001 and 2009.
MQO Research was selected to conduct the study through a competitive request for proposals process. It will conduct the survey, analyze the data and produce a report of the results, which should be available in 2015.
Programs to treat those with gambling addictions are offered by the Regional Health Authorities. A Responsible Gaming Information Centre is also located at Casino New Brunswick.
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