Casinos "an opportunity for more employment"

2008-05-12 17:06:59

A Jamaican government minister has spoken out to defend plans to build the country's first casino, saying it will create a large number of employment opportunities.

Edmund Bartlett, tourism minister, said even though the casino licenses will be restricted, thousands of people would still benefit through increased jobs, reports the Jamaica Observer.

"It's an opportunity for more employment," he stated, claiming that the first proposed site, Montego Bay, Rose Hall, will likely account for 12,000 jobs alone.

Mr Bartlett also said $182.45 million could be made from the casino, while transport industries will also benefit from the increased levels of tourism.

Commenting on some people's suggestions that gambling may degrade Jamaican society, he remarked: "I have no fear and I want to dispel the fear that may exist."

Other countries that have cut down gambling industry restrictions over the past few years include the UK and Macau, which is now the world's wealthiest casino destination.