The Government in Bermuda says the public are to be informed today that a feasibility study on gaming will be undertaken. In June the government decided to allow cruise ships in port to open late night casinos so as to remain competitive with other ports in the Caribbean islands. However, gambling is a very contentious issue in Bermuda with the Church strongly opposed to casino licensing.

The feasibility study has an estimated cost of $300,000 and the government has suggested that hoteliers on the island should pay one-third. It is understood that the hoteliers have been reluctant to agree to this but that some larger hotels may contribute. It is hoped that the introduction of casinos in Bermuda will increase tourist numbers and provide a boost to the economy.

The consultants jointly hired by the Government and the Bermuda Hotel Association to carry out the study are the Innovation Group and they will address the questions of the economic and social impact of gambling and consider potential tax revenues. Premier Ewart Brown told a press conference today: “We have listened to the developers who are investing heavily into Bermuda by building new hotels and likewise to those existing hoteliers who are attempting to refresh and renew their hotel product. There is broad support for some form of gaming in Bermuda from their perspective but that is not enough to cause the Government to implement it.”

He continued, "Gaming is not unknown to Bermuda or Bermudians. Certain gaming pursuits have become culturally permissible. These include Crown and Anchor, high-stakes card games, bingo and the various pools. Additionally, it is fair to say that considerable numbers of Bermudians travel to well known gambling cities for the sole purpose of that activity." The Premier added that the feasibility of a Bermuda lottery and an overview of Internet wagering to determine Bermuda’s suitability as a centre of online gaming would be considered by the consultants.

In conclusion the Premier stated, "I am well aware of the strong feelings about gaming that are prevalent in the community. The aim of this feasibility study is to openly and fully address all aspects of this issue so that we make decisions based on facts. I expect that public consultation will be invited and that an assessment of the various positions on the issue of gaming for Bermuda will form a key part of the ultimate report done by the researcher.” (E-10.24.08)

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