Samoa’s opposition leader has pledged to abolish legislation that opens the way for casinos to start operating in the Pacific island nation.
Palusalue Fa’apo told Radio Australia’s “Pacific Beat” that the government’s decision to sanction the industry goes against Samoa’s cultural and Christian heritage, and he fears it will create social problems.
“My position will be always against this legislation,” he said. “I believe there will be more social problems and disadvantage, more than the benefits from the casino.”
Two licenses are to be issued, one to the Aggie Greys resort hotel in Apia, the other to ETG, a Chinese exhibition, travel and property development company that is investing in large-scale resort projects in the Pacific and Indian oceans. ETG’s resort is slated for Mr Fa’apo’s constituency of Safata.
Robbie Kearney, chief executive of Samoa’s new Gambling Control Authority, says casinos will create jobs for local people and attract tourism dollars.
Mr Fa’apo says the focus of tourism should be on promoting Samoa’s tradition and culture, rather than gambling.
