There’s an interesting article in La Presse this morning. Killing two birds with one stone is probably an inappropriate metaphor although to my mind it’s very much a win/win situation.

I’m referring to the 15% or so drop in revenues that Loto Quebec has seen as a result of the No Smoking ban in bars where often VLT’s are placed. For some people, gambling is clearly an addiction and now if they were smokers they cannot indulge in both simultaneously. Breaking off for a smoke may involve quite a trek in some bars and you can see how this might be a disincentive to return. This is happening in summer so the effect may well be even more marked in winter.

Although Loto Quebec is feeling the pinch as are some bar owners, it’s highly probably that society as a whole is economically better off .. and the gamblers too, even if they don’t acknowledge it.

Related posts:

1. Help Wanted
2. The bar owners’ revolt
3. Fireworks!
4. Somber reflections
5. Today’s weather