December 3, 2013

Dear Sir,

The latest hot topic, Gaming or Gambling, and the fact that a referendum will take place early in the New Year will inevitably stir an emotive reaction from the populace.

This reaction can however be minimized if all the facts are laid-out, in order for the electorate to make an informed / educated decision.

There are some that appear to be in favour and some that are not in favour, of the idea.

A suggestion is, why not divulge / reveal all relevant data / information regarding Gambling of studies performed in other jurisdictions, enabling people to make their personal choice.

Obviously, there are ‘pros’ and ‘cons’. How they relate to a Bermuda environment, is another question.

The proposed referendum question of Gambling by the O.B.A. is in my opinion, ambiguous (having more than one meaning, open to different interpretations).

One needs to consider the ramifications, (consequences of action), pertaining to such an important decision. Also, regarding our Tourism Brand, how or will it ‘effect’ (a change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause), the ‘uniqueness’ Bermuda has ‘prided’ herself on for many decades, as a tourist destination.

Will a decision, whichever way, have an’ affect, ’ (stirring emotion or desire as influencing behaviour), of not just the visitor, but also the general populace?

There are many implications. Therefore, a detailed ‘objective’ study should be made available / published for all to digest, going forward, in order to make an educated decision, prior to the actual referendum.

Glenn Chase

Hamilton