PM: Govt. painfully paying for continued operation of casino

Mon, Sep 7th 2009, 12:00 AM

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham admitted yesterday that the Government is "painfully paying the cost for the continued operation of the Isle of Capri Casino in Port Lucaya."

The Prime Minister made these comments while visiting the island over the weekend where he spoke candidly with the media regarding economic concerns in Grand Bahama.

He further noted that the Government's decision to operate the gaming business is not one that he is comfortable with.

"I am not comfortable with The Bahamas Government having to take out funds from the public treasury monies to run a casino," stated Prime Minister Ingraham.

However, he added, "these are unusual times and we are taking some unusual decisions to support Freeport and support the 200 plus people who are employed there."

Earlier this year it was announced that Isle of Capri was pulling out of the gaming business in Grand Bahama, and that the Government was feverishly pursuing interested operators for the casino.

Use the player below to listen to
the Prime Minister's comments




In early September, the Minister of Tourism, Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace announced that Treasure Bay Casino and Resort Inc., was selected as the best operator for the casino property.

By Barbara Walkin / The Freeport News

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