The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has appointed Paul Newson, Trustee of the NSW Responsible Gambling Fund, as President as part of IAGR’s 2019 annual conference, held in Jamaica from 30 September to 3 October.

The event – IAGR2019 – attracted over 200 gaming regulators, advisors, law experts and industry representatives from more than 25 countries.

Mr Newson said, ‘It’s an honour to be appointed President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators following what’s been a watershed year for the organisation.

I’m really looking forward to working with our Board of Trustees, members and industry stakeholders to best position IAGR to advance better regulation globally.’

Outgoing President, Trude Felde, Senior Advisor at the Norwegian Gaming Authority, said, ‘What a year it’s been. I would like to thank the Board and our Secretary for their hard work and commitment over the 12 months.’

‘To our members, thank you for having the confidence in me to lead as President for the last year. I love engaging with gaming regulatory community, and I hope to see you all regularly for many years to come.’

More than 40 speakers and panellists travelled to Montego Bay, Jamaica to be part of the program for IAGR2019. Mr Newson was appointed as President on Day 3 of IAGR2019, as part of the annual members’ meeting.

Paul Curby, Director CurbyPartners, presented at the event on ‘Indicators of deception in language’. Paul has over 30 years’ experience in governance and risk, specialising in investigations across serious misconduct, fraud and corruption, including 15 years in law enforcement.

Mr Curby said, ‘Overseeing gaming operators brings its own unique challenges, particularly when it comes to investigating and testing the veracity of their conduct.

‘Whether a regulator is being proactive in eliciting information from operators or reacting to potential legislative breaches, or interviewing a witness, regulatory staff need to have the necessary skills to help identify where someone is withholding information and/or being deceptive.

‘Understanding linguistic cues in written and verbal communication will help regulators get to the truth. Knowing these cues and how to respond is key.’

In his closing comments at the event Mr Newson said, ‘I’m thrilled to declare IAGR2019 a smashing success.

‘Our impressive lineup of speakers, many internationally renowned, provoked thinking and debate, and sparked conversations that will continue and help advance efficient and collaborative gambling regulation globally.

‘Thank you to our hosts the Betting Gaming & Lotteries Commission and Casino Gaming Commission, Jamaica for staging an outstanding conference and for the immensely warm and vibrant Jamaican hospitality.’

‘While IAGR2019 has come to a close and we prepare to say farewell to Jamaica, our gaze now shifts and anticipation builds for IAGR2020 in Boston, Massachusetts.’

IAGR2020 will be hosted by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and will be held in late 2020.