BC Ferries slot machines plan scrapped by government

Slot machines will not be installed on BC Ferriesbecause it is not financially viable and would actually result in a huge loss every year, says the B.C. government.

Transportation Minister Todd Stone announced in November 2013the ferry corporation was assessing the viability of gaming onmajorsailingsbetween the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Islandas a source of additionalrevenue.

• BC Ferries to cut sailings, seniors' discounts, add slot machines

On Monday, however, the province saida business analysisby the British Columbia Lottery Corporation found such a program would actually result in an estimatedloss of more than$240,000 per year, dueto the need for gaming equipment, IT services, and staffing.

The analysis also found that a portion of therevenuesmight have to be shared with Washington state because the sailings cut through U.S. waters.

Disputes over winnings

The report also raisedsafety concerns, such as children being left unattendedand fights over winnings.

"While relatively rare, ...disputes over game outcomes, thefts, delayed jackpots due to irregularities ...and other issues carry the potential to damage the reputation of BC Ferries and BCLC, as well as cause delays in the boarding and disembarking of passengers on the vessel," says the report.

On Monday, the province said it agrees with the BCLC's analysis and therefore will be scrapping the idea.

"While the BC Lottery Corporation's analysis showed that this idea wouldn't make money, we'll remain open to other revenue-generating services," said Stone in a statement.

The government says it will be expanding gift shops and relocating coffee shops to increase revenues as well.