The Tribune

By DANA SMITH

Tribune Staff Reporter

dsmith@tribunemedia.net

FOLLOWING the release of the newly proposed Gaming Act, Baha Mar executives said they are “encouraged” and praised the recommendations as a step in modernising the country’s industry and positioning the Bahamas as “a global casino destination”.

Senior vice-president of external and governmental affairs Robert “Sandy” Sands said: “The modernisation of the gaming regulation encompasses a plethora of excellent innovations and we would like to see where the government comes out on it’s recommendations.”

He said for Baha Mar, the focus is on “the big picture”.

“The big picture for us is the Bahamas as a world class gaming destination. Our regulations have not been meaningfully addressed since the 1960s.

“What is now taking place, in terms of the government’s approach to the modernisation, will position the Bahamas as a global casino destination. It’s going to drive gaming revenues, it’s going to create a sustainable, competition, advantage for the Bahamas. It’s going to expand Bahamian tourism. All of those things are a win-win for not only the private sector but the public sector and the Bahamas, as a whole.”

He also spoke briefly on the frustrations created by the proposal in the Bill allowing resorts to offer on-line gaming, while web shops remain illegal.

He explained it’s a “bit premature” to specifically speak on the concerns, as the Act is still a proposal and “no definitive position has been made as yet.”

He added that gaming laws are in place and Baha Mar will continue to abide by those laws – whatever they may be.

“We certainly will abide by the laws of the country and until such time as those laws have been addressed, then certainly they will be included in the new gaming regulation,” he said.

“Until such time as the government in its wisdom sees fit to change those laws, then we would welcome the government’s position if that were to be the case.”