NT Gaming and Licensing Minister Peter Styles goes to ground after controversial pokies announcement

The Northern Territory's new Minister for Gaming and Licensing has not got time this weekend to explain his first announcement since he took over the portfolio, increasing the number of poker machines allowed in pubs and clubs, according to his spokeswoman.

Peter Styles, NT Minister for Racing, Gaming and Licensing (Photo : NT Government)

Peter Styles used an electronic press release to make the announcement at 5:47pm on Friday, when media outlets were focused on the Government reshuffle.

The 1,190 cap on pokies in the jurisdiction will be lifted from July 1, 2015, as part of the "reforms".

The limit for clubs will rise from 45 to 55, and 10 to 20 for pubs.

"According to the ABS, since 2009 the Territory's population has grown by 20,000 and there have been many new licensed venues opened that may wish to pursue the option of offering gaming machines in their venues," Mr Styles said in the release.

"With the cap in place, they have been prevented from doing so and we are restoring an even playing field so that new entrants aren't competing at a disadvantage.

"Northern Territory taxpayers could expect to receive several million dollars in increased taxation revenue and entitlement fees.

"I want to assure the public that there will be a rigorous process before any new electronic gaming machines are approved. This will include community consultation, examination of socio-demographic densities and an independent community impact statement."

But the minister was not available for an interview to address criticism of the decision.

His office did not return the ABC's calls on Saturday but his media advisor said on Sunday that he "had functions right up until after your news time" but would be available on Monday.

Source : ABC News    Jesse Dorsett   December 14th 2014