Premier is finally Standing Strong

“Greed is Good” 

Gordon Gecko

The OBA has committed to a referendum slated to be held by the year’s end.  And, as such, it needs to:

• Present a balanced, well-researched White Paper so that the electorate knows what a “yes” vote will equate to.

• Adequat-ely educate the electorate on the various pros and cons of gaming

One of the weaknesses of the referendum process is the unfair influences that special interest groups have.  

Powerful groups get their voices heard and they present their self-serving message consistently and loudly to the public. 

This media barrage has the seductive powers to sway public opinion.  

According to the US National Gambling Impact Study Commission (NGISC) Report “almost all studies [on gambling] have been conducted by interested parties. 

“These typically have gone no further than to estimate local jobs and income from the gambling industry.” In other words only tell us the good side.

Card sharks

The gaming referendum debate has drawn some interesting players to the tables 

 “In the opinion of the Chamber, cost is another very important reason to for go a referendum, as a considerable sum would have to be spent on a campaign to provide information to the public and prepare for a referendum.” Ronnie Viera, Bernews, August 8, 2013.

He seems more concerned about his members than the electorate’s right to vote.

He goes on: “Additionally, more valuable time and resources would have to be deployed to run the actual election, disrupting commerce island-wide. It will not be an inexpensive process and we contend that the money can be much better spent, or saved. We need to simply stop talking about it and get on with it.” 

What next will the CoC attempt to tell us to “get on with?” 

Sir John Swan speaks

This was his opinion pre-election.

“The decision to introduce gaming to Bermuda should be done by way of a referendum, in accordance with the Referendum Act 2012 and not part of the general election ballot so that the public are able to exercise their choice.” Royal Gazette, September 17, 2012.

This was his opinion post-election.

“I don’t think a referendum is necessary.”

Bermuda Sun, August 9, 2013

Hmmm. Why the change in view since the OBA is now in? Maybe because Sir John now has plans to build a hotel and casino in Hamilton?

Sir John said: “We put a casino in there and a small hotel in there, with restaurants and so forth and a new ferry terminal with a restaurant above it.” 

Bermuda Sun, August 9, 2013.

Motives

Both the Chamber of Commerce, Sir John, and their circle of friends, stand to gain from gaming in Bermuda, and simply wish for the OBA to “just get on with it”. 

As a carrot to the public they will point to studies that only show the positive side of gaming. They will use the same carrot and “promise new jobs for Bermudians”.

If the electorate can decide on a government, they can decide on a referendum as well. 

People with money think we must simply do as they say without our voice being heard. That is nothing more than financial dictatorship. Bermudians will not be dictated to.

“No change to the Government’s position on Gaming. As promised, we remain committed to the Referendum process.” Bernews Aug 12.

Looks like my cousin Cannonier is finally “Standing Strong”.