It appears that the Jamaican government has now received a report commissioned to establish a regulatory framework and tax regime for licensing casinos in the country. The commission was headed by Dennis Lalor, a man at the forefront of Jamaican business for many years. In 1990 he became a member of the Privy Council of Jamaica and was awarded the Order of Jamaica in 1994. Dennis Lalor is Chairman of the Board of Directors of ICWI Group and this year was appointed Air Jamaica Limited Board Director.

On his induction into the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica's Hall of Fame last year, he commented that as a people Jamaicans love politicking too much, and seem to lack the will to do those things which will eliminate the deterrents to growth. “We need to concentrate on economics and not on politics, if we want to join the ranks of countries with successful economies.” Casinos are now seen by the government as a way to boost the Jamaican economy.

Church officials in Jamaica will remain outspoken opponents of a casino licensing law. One national newspaper, the Jamaica Gleaner, has already been taken to task for publishing an editorial in support of casino gambling. Jamaica permits gambling in other forms – the lottery, horse racing and slot machines in gaming lounges. In April Prime Minister Bruce Golding established the commission and told Parliament that casino gambling was a way to generate more tax revenues to pay for health care, education and security.

Conditions for casino licensing are likely to include a minimum investment of US$1.5 billion and the construction of at least 1,000 hotel rooms. If granted approval after financial and background investigations, prospective investors would not be allowed to make the casinos more than 20% of the total investment project. The government hopes that the addition of casinos will not only boost tax revenue but also stimulate the tourist industry – a 2003 study recommended casino licensing to attract visitors, and the Tourism Minister is actively supporting the proposal. (E-07.25.08)

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