National Security Minister Dr. Bernard Nottage yesterday apologized to the Bahamian people for going against the results of the January 28, 2013 gambling referendum.
But he also took issue with pastors who charged that the government is "killing democracy" and should be voted out of office if members of Parliament vote for the Gaming Bill.
"I join in with the member of Parliament for West End and Bimini (Obie Wilchcombe) who indicated an apology to the people of The Bahamas for the fact we did not act consistent with their voting on the referendum," said Nottage during his contribution to the Gaming Bill.
"I join the member in doing that. In my opinion that does no harm to the Bahamian people.
"Thousands of people work in the web shop gaming industry, just as thousands or probably less in the casino industry. It provides an income for many Bahamian families.
"We are the government and governments have to govern. Governments have to look at the situation in the country and make decisions which are in the best interest of the country.
"Sometimes those decisions do not meet favor with some people in the country, but we have to make choices."
Several religious leaders have condemned the government's decision to regulate the web shop industry.
The pastors have pointed out that the majority of Bahamians who voted in a gambling referendum voted no on the issue.
Pastor Alfred Stewart said the government is "killing democracy" in The Bahamas by moving ahead to regulate the industry.
He added that MPs who vote in favor of the bill should be fired and replaced by men who fear God.
Addressing the issue yesterday, Nottage asked, "Can you imagine clergyman telling people don't vote for anybody who votes for the Gaming Bill?
"Firstly, Mr. Speaker, they have erroneously accused us of killing democracy in The Bahamas and then expressed the unchristian desire that every person who votes in favor of the Gaming Bill should lose their seats and be replaced by men and women who first and foremost fear God.
"...Now they are telling us that we don't fear God."
Nottage pointed out that his constituents, who elected him in the last two elections, voted in favor of the referendum.
He said dealing with the web shop industry was a "necessity".
The Gaming Bill was passed in the House yesterday with 25 yes votes and seven no votes.
Three PLP MPs were absent when the vote was taken: Central and South Andros MP Picewell Forbes, North Abaco MP Renardo Curry and Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells.
Two Free National Movement (FNM) MPs were also absent: Central and South Abaco MP Edison Key and North Eleuthera MP Theo Neilly.
Fort Charlotte MP Dr. Andre Rollins was the only PLP MP who voted against the bill.
The FNM MPs who were present also voted against it.

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