GIBSON...on moral issues such as these, national referenda are necessary

THE head of the agency that regulates gambling in The Bahamas has suggested that Jamaica holds a referendum to resolve the controversial issue of whether the island should introduce casino gambling.

Jamaica has, for decades, maintained an on-and-off debate on the subject and while the island has legalised other forms of gambling, governments, under the pressure of the religious communities, have drawn the line at casinos.

The topic has resurfaced in recent months, and Prime Minister P J Patterson, suggesting a softening of attitude, has called for a formal study of the matter, which, according to Tourism Minister Aloun N'dombet Assamba, is still being worked on.

But Kenyatta Gibson, the chairman of the Gaming Board of The Bahamas, said at a banquet of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association in Montego Bay on Saturday night that this might be a matter for the people to decide.

"It is said that the voice of the people is like the voice of God," Gibson told leading tourism and government figures. "On moral issues such as these, national referenda are necessary to discuss, assimilate and decide on various courses of action that must be taken on the gaming issue... Real, true democratic governance is about adhering to the will of the people."

Pro-casino lobbyists argue that they would enhance and diversify the island's tourism product and draw more visitors to the island. The upshot would be greater earnings from the industry and more jobs.

In fact, Gibson indicated that The Bahamas does well from its three existing casinos. They earn the country in excess of US$23 million a year in taxes and levies.

"...Casino operators (pay) a substantial sum into various social development funds which finance urban renewal, sports, education and health initiatives in their various communities," he added.

But Gibson stressed the need to properly explain to people that gaming was an industry in itself and not just "an accoutrement to the tourism product".

Therefore, the traditional "sun, sea and sand" marketing strategies engaged in for warm weather destinations may not be appropriate when targetting people who travel to gamble, he explained.

"These people just want to get into a casino," Gibson said. "They have no interest in the flora or fauna" (of the destination). They aspire to no tropical suntan, they have no interest in a straw basket at the local craft market, duty free rum or perfume...They simply want to play."

Bahamians are not allowed to gamble in the island's casinos.

Gibson also disclosed that there was now a lobby in The Bahamas for a national lottery.

Ironically, there are two private lottery companies in Jamaica which last year turned over more than $14 billion.

Another $4 billion was bet on horseracing.

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