The Interactive Gaming Council (IGC) opened its Canadian office to serve as the international centre for the online gaming industry’s trade association. With the increased popularity of interactive gaming, the Council realized a need for visibility and accessibility to the public, regulators, and legislators. The Interactive Gaming Council, recognized as a voice for the industry, advances the interests of consumers and operators in international interactive gaming environments.
IGC members operate or supply services to many of the 260 interactive gaming and wagering sites on the world wide web today. The IGC’s new Executive Director, Alan Schneider, believes the Vancouver location will serve as a resource centre as the industry advances its work with international regulators and legislators. He said, "Multi-national acceptance of the industry by consumers and governments has risen substantially, and the Council’s activities and commitments have evolved to a point where full-time resources are required." Prior to joining the association, Mr. Schneider worked for land-based and online casino corporations.
The Council also establishes fair and responsible trade guidelines and practices to enhance consumer confidence in interactive gaming services and entertainment. "Being visible and accessible in a virtual world removes many stereotypes associated with interactive gaming and wagering sites and encourages a fair and healthy entertainment environment for consumers, businesses and governments," Schneider added. "The interactive gaming industry has grown into an accepted and successful entertainment source on the Internet." The Council’s initiatives to maintain fair gaming environments and its dedication to consumer issues, including problem gambling and access to minors, are unparalleled.
The IGC also serves as the industry’s public policy advocate and information clearinghouse. "Although the US is a potential, major market for our members, the Internet is global and we chose Canada, with its respected business and political climates, as an international location," said Schneider. He added that the Council continues to work with governments and legislators in an effort to develop effective control and regulatory frameworks for the industry. "An ill-conceived prohibition of internet gaming introduced by Senator Jon Kyl failed to pass the U.S. House of Representatives last year and we continue to see other, respected governments developing regulatory frameworks and taxation models for the industry. Positive responses in the USA have shown us how important it is to inform legislators and consumers that government-enforced prohibitions are not the solution to some of the legitimate issues surrounding gaming on the Internet."
For additional information, please visit the web site of the Interactive Gaming Council.