According to the Minister of State for Tourism and Aviation, Branville McCartney, the gaming industry continues to play a vital role in the economy of The Bahamas. In a speech in the 2007/8 Budget Debate he also commented that The Bahamas had gained a reputation as a gaming jurisdiction of the highest integrity, and must continue to safeguard that reputation at all costs.

The fact that gaming is an ever-changing industry means that constant training is necessary to keep regulators up to date with new developments. "Since gaming is such a dynamic industry, the Lotteries and Gaming Act must be reviewed and amended. In this regard, a Bill will be presented to this august body in the not too distant future." Government Gaming Inspectors are trained both in The Bahamas and abroad to keep abreast of new systems such as ticket-in ticket-out (TITO).

The Minister attributed gaming with being a major contributory factor to visitor numbers and tourism in The Bahamas. The industry employs around 2,400 people, 87% being Bahamians. This direct employment is supplemented by the additional jobs created at the restaurants, bars and other services at the casinos. Isle of Capri, which was struggling with losses after hurricane damage, was given a reduction in March this year of the amount payable in taxes.

The Our Lucaya Beach Resort employs nearly 1,000 people and the government acted following the decision by Isle of Capri to close the operation. The company agreed to remain in The Bahamas when the tax reduction was offered as well as a government decision to provide marketing support for the resort. The casino at Our Lucaya has 400 slot machines and 30 table games. (E-06.12.07)

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