Tote equipment will be bought

Press, 6 October 1980, Page 24

Tote equipment will be bought

PA Auckland Racing, trotting and greyhound racing clubs will face no further possiblity of withdrawal of totalisator equipment. Representatives of the three codes have successfully negotiated with A.T.L. Ltd, the totalisator company which services most New Zealand tracks, for the purchase of its equipment. Until the introduction of the new integrated computrised betting system, expected inside three years, A.T.L. will continue to use this equipment, to operate its service commitments to clubs. This outcome is the result of a two-day meeting held in Auckland between the interested parties and presided over by the secretary of the Auckland Racing Club, Mr W. N. Mackie. Last month A.T.L. Ltd, which has no involvement in the new system, threatened to withdraw its machinery

unless clubs agreed to a new set of terms for its hire. Mr Mackie said the basic format of a totalisator service for clubs was "approved subject to the completion of the necessary legal documents." A purchase price could not be disclosed yet, but it was an “insignificant figure” and would be met by racing, trotting and greyhound racing clubs. “Representatives of the racing industry wish to record their appreciation to A.T.L. Ltd, for their cooperation in ensuring that all totalisator services will be continued during the period when the new sell/pay system is being introduced.” Arrangements have also been made designed to protect the rights and welfare of permanent totalisator staff. As well, all parties have agreed to try to maintain employment for casual staff both during and after the introduction of the new system.