Overview: The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is a Provincial agency, established February 23, 1998 under the Alcohol and Gaming Regulation and Public Protection Act, 1996. The Act gave the AGCO responsibility for the administration of the Liquor Licence Act and the Gaming Control Act, 1992. Complimentary legislative amendments eliminated the Gaming Control Commission and the Liquor Licence Board of Ontario.The AGCO is a quasi-judicial regulatory agency that reports to the Ministry of the Attorney General, and is responsible for the administration of the following:
- Liquor Licence Act
- Gaming Control Act, 1992
- Wine Content and Labelling Act, 2000
- Liquor Control Act (Section 3(1)b, e, f, g and 3(2)a)
- Charity Lottery Licensing Order in Council 1413/08
AGCO Mandate: To regulate the alcohol and gaming sectors in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, and in the public interest.
Mission Statement: The AGCO commits to conducting business in a manner that will:
- Develop, implement and enforce fair policies and procedures.
- Establish a framework of critical regulatory controls in the public interest that are sensitive to the economic viability of the alcohol and gaming industries.
- Be client focused in the way we respond to and manage client and stakeholder needs.
- Educate clients and stakeholders and develop partnerships.
- Create a supportive work environment that respects and values AGCO staff contributions and provides them with opportunities for growth and professional achievement.
Background: The AGCO, established February 23, 1998, assumed responsibility for the administration of legislation previously administered by the Liquor Licence Board of Ontario and the Gaming Control Commission.
Liquor Licence Board of Ontario: Established in 1947 under the Liquor Licence Act, the Liquor Licence Board of Ontario was responsible for regulating the sale, service and consumption of beverage alcohol in Ontario to promote moderation and responsible use.
Gaming Control Commission (GCC): The GCC was established under the Gaming Control Act in 1994. The GCC was responsible for the regulation of charitable and casino gaming, for ensuring that those people and companies involved in casino and charitable gaming satisfy high standards of honesty, integrity and financial responsibility, and that games of chance are conducted fairly.
Copies of statutes and regulations can be obtained from the ServiceOntario Location at 777 Bay Street (College Park Building), Market Level, Suite M212, Toronto, Ontario. To order copies by mail, call: 1-800-668-9938 (toll-free in Ontario), Toronto 416-326-5300 or visit their web site at ServiceOntario Publications.