Fiji Exploring Casinos Setting Up of Casinos

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has welcomed the idea of introducing of casinos in Fiji which he thinks will bring in more money which will help solve poverty. He said, “Think about the casino concept as there are more than 100 ways to skin a cat to ensure that Fiji benefits”.

Bainimarama said every time the issue of setting up casinos is raised, people start criticizing it without thinking that this can result in benefits. He said there can be controls put in place and the casinos can be restricted to only tourists with locals not allowed to take part in it.

The Prime Minister said the money earned from the casinos can be diverted to poverty alleviation. Bainimarama added that most people, instead of helping in the reduction of poverty have their own agenda.

Bainimarama said consequent to the idea of widening our tourist base, casinos can reduce our current exposure to heavily relying on our couple of countries or two major segments within the tourist market, namely Australia and New Zealand.

Meanwhile, Fiji Council of Social Services Executive Director Hassan Khan, whose organization has opposed the setting up of casinos for more than 20 years, said he made his stand clear. He said the advantages and disadvantages need to be weighed properly, while the Citizens Constitutional Forum’s Reverend Akuila Yabaki said they have some reservations on the casino concept.

Courtesy. FijiVillage

Photo Credits. Planet Rulers