No harm in Casinos for Jamaica!

At least one academia member has added his voice to the controversial issue of casino gambling in Jamaica, arguing that the proposed introduction cannot do any more harm to the society, than what now exists.

“I don’t think that we Jamaicans could have any more corruption of our morals, we’re already corrupted,” charged deputy principal at the University of the West Indies Mona Campus, Josef Pereira.

“I have no reservations whatsoever in proposing that we promote casino gambling as quickly as possible. It seems to me that when you look at other places that have done this, it has been a boost for the economy, without corrupting the morals of the society”.

Pereira made the comments during the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry quarterly luncheon, which was hosted at Wexford Hotel. The issue of casino gambling has fuelled heated discussions between the Church and the government regarding the latter’s move to introduce legalize the activity in Jamaica.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding announced in his April 2008 budget presentation that his administration would be formalizing casino gambling. This, however, is under the condition that the investor's development is US$1 billion and over.  The Casino Bill, which was tabled in July, intends to establish a commission to regulate casino gaming in Jamaica and it is among the list of priority items to be debated in Parliament.