Bermuda is inching toward that proverbial fork in the road, with confusion and mixed emotions over which path to take on the sensitive subject of introducing legalised casinos to boost our tourism industry, which is in dire need of added attractions.

This venture has been projected to create a number of jobs for Bermudians at a time when our economic state remains critical.

If it gets the green light the question is, will it be implemented in a way that would enhance job opportunity, while protecting values necessary for a healthy, safe, society?

That is where rubber hits the road on strong views for and against gambling, as far as rebuilding our economy and hopefully reducing our huge debt.

In speaking with a number of people it would seem that most Bermudians are fully aware that something must be done and they are not against casinos as such, but are deeply concerned about what impact this could have on our social infrastructure already challenged with crime, illegal drug activity, and other problems.

In other words most people are open to moves to improve tourism, but with casinos their principle concern is whether it could be effectively restricted to tourists only. Some Bermudians are not likely to support that view.

Most Bermudians want progress but they desperately seek assurances from Government that such a move is not undertaken without examining carefully every aspect of what is involved. Without proper regulations to govern casinos, the door could be opened for a situation counterproductive to objectives.

Even more disturbing are clear signs that a political type of civil war could be in the making as politicians clash over who has the best plan to improve our economy. Some of this debate appears to be with an eye on future elections.

This is a concern, because Bermuda and its people should be the priority rather than what might look good for a particular political group. Although Government has abandoned holding a public referendum to gauge public sentiment, which has touched a nerve with quite a few, they have insisted the public will still have an opportunity to voice any concerns prior to debate in Parliament, where a decision will be taken.

Referendum or not, most responsible Bermudians will want to know as much as possible about what is planned, and what legal safeguards will be in place to ensure that the operation will be conducted in a way that is economically productive, without turning the Island into a miniature Las Vegas.

Gambling has been a source of heartbreak for families around the world, since it is common knowledge that the house never loses. Many of us have had a go at those machines on cruise ships, and while a few have walked away smiling, many have wished they had used the money for something else. The point is that gambling has never been a character-building activity, but it is accepted that casino entertainment is a part of many tourism resorts, and Bermuda needs to be competitive.

When Parliament debates the pros and cons of having casinos in Bermuda we can only hope that representatives will avoid negative bitter exchanges that often get too personal, and detract from getting at the bottom of issues that concern the people. Whatever is decided should be in the interest of making Bermuda a better place. That is a challenge in itself. Nothing will please everyone.

Not every visitor is into gambling, in fact over the years many have indicated they would prefer Bermuda did not move in that direction. However, the market has changed and the demand for this form of entertainment cannot be ignored. On the other hand, we should not lose sight of our responsibility to preserve values for future generations in the process. Hopefully, even without a referendum the public will make their feelings known to Government which will keep democracy alive.

Whichever path we choose should be based on providing our Island infrastructure with new hope for moving Bermuda toward economic security, peace and a safe place to do business and live in harmony.

Achieving this cannot be accomplished without working together. Working together seems to be our biggest challenge.

With the festive season upon us it seems appropriate to pause and reflect on the blessings we have, and to use this period to clear our minds of rage over this or that, and apply a sense of reason and respect as we start a new year. Meanwhile, it is always the hope that the Christmas festival will be peaceful and enjoyable for all.