In various places around the world nations are making economic decisions that will have long term effects. As in any major decision making, there will be two sides to every proposal, and frequently the arguments are over commercial gaming. Two places presently involved in heated debate are Belize in Central America and Chile’s Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Both have established reputations for eco tourism but commercial interests are offering more jobs and revenue, an enticement to many a government.

Belize has the fastest growing tourist port in the Caribbean as a result of the increasing popularity of cruises. Last year saw 800,000 visitors from cruise ships, adding some US$65 million to the local economy. However, the additional tourist numbers may come at a price – the eco tourists, who spend far more than those on cruises, are finding that the solitude to which they are accustomed is frequently disturbed by hundreds of people climbing around the archaeological sites or in boats round the coral reefs. Gambling dollars from neighbouring Mexico are already brought in by the Belize casino.

Rapa Nui is similarly debating the issue of building an entertainment casino complex. This could be an extra inducement for tourists, according to those who want it, or the end of eco tourism and island traditions according to the others. Money for additional infrastructure and more jobs are doubtless good for the overall island economy, but a casino complex would assuredly change the face of the remote Pacific island.

It is easy for outsiders to say that things should be preserved as they are, particularly the eco tourists from far away with money in their pockets. It is easy for outsiders to say that progress is the way forward, particularly the entrepreneurs from far away with money in their pockets. It is even easy to say that local people should decide, but then local people have differing viewpoints on life. There are no easy answers when it comes to economic decisions and the quality of life. (E-05.09.06)

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