Sydney Catholic Club Joining Poker Machine Campaign

A Catholic Club in Sydney is currently working to change its constitution to aid its fight against the poker machine reforms that are being proposed by the federal government.  The club, Dooley’s Lidcombe Catholic Club, is asking members to remove a constitutional ban on the group taking part in political activities, so that it has the freedom to campaign against betting limits being placed on poker machines.

The plans came to light when the Australian Communications and Media Authority confirmed that it would investigate criticisms leveled by Ray Warren and Phil Gould against the reforms.

The club is not currently allowed to get involved in political campaigning and broadcasts, and they do not plan to become party political, but they feel that pre-commitment is a threat to the future financial success of the club.  A spokesman for the club, Mr Munce, said “We assured the Cardinal that problem gambling is present but is not a major issue in our Catholic clubs.”  The clubs make a significant portion of their revenue from gaming machines, and depend on them for their future success.

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