After numerous discussions about the legalisation of casinos in Bermuda, a draft law will be submitted to Parliament before the end of the year.
This comes almost three years after the idea was first proposed and after a series of reports and public consultation meetings. In a speech to the House of Assembly of Bermuda, Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell described the bill as "the most important component to ensure we have the best regime and administrative structure to effectively oversee domestic casinos."
He noted that the decision to disregard a previous referendum was "difficult," but the latest polls show that 76 per cent of residents support casinos. "I am encouraged by this result, which is similar to a survey the government carried out in 2013, which showed that 74 per cent of residents support casino resorts," Crockwell said.
"The government has also been very clear that local residents will be admitted at any casino, provided they comply with the criteria established by regulation."
Based on the regulatory framework for casinos in Singapore and developed with the US consulting firm Spectrum Gaming Group, the legislation will not be presented during this session of Parliament. “We will have the full legal structure presented for approval before the end of 2014," said Crockwell.
"The legalising of casino gaming in Bermuda is an important statement to be observed closely by our competitors and potential investors in the tourism industry. It is vital for the reputation of Bermuda that we get our legal structure soon and this government is committed to that."
