The government of Guyana is to bring casino gambling legislation before Parliament on 11 January and expects the bill to be debated and passed without delay. The speed of the legislation is to facilitate at least one casino licence being granted before the cricket World Cup scheduled for March and April around the Caribbean, including Providence Stadium in Guyana. With casino licences limited to four- and five-star hotels with no fewer than 250 rooms, only one hotel in the country would presently be eligible - the US$10 million Buddy's International Hotel and Resort under construction.

Guyana’s President, Bharrat Jagdeo, has stated that there are ongoing negotiations with other hotel developers for the construction of further hotels with casino facilities. Prime Minister Sam Hinds has held consultations with members of the country’s religious community over the question of licensing casinos. Guyana has a mixed population with many Hindus, Christians and Muslims and none of its religious leaders is in favour of any form of gambling. Representatives of tourism associations have so far not been consulted.

The government is promising to take measures to limit possible harm from problem gambling and to be vigilant in a constant assessment of the situation. It is thought that the casino legislation bill will not allow Guyanese to gamble despite the charge of hypocrisy, as many already gamble when they travel abroad. Full details of the draft bill to be presented to Parliament have not yet been published. (E-01.03.07)

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