National

Do Bahamians Want to Gamble in Casinos?

THE BAHAMAS – Bahamian market research and strategy firm Public Domain revealing that 66% of Bahamians feel they should be allowed to gamble in casinos.

Published

1 year ago

September 13, 2023

Berthony McDermott

THE BAHAMAS – Bahamian market research and strategy firm Public Domain revealing that 66% of Bahamians feel they should be allowed to gamble in casinos.

When broken down by gender, the survey revealed 69% of male respondents and 64% of females think Bahamians should be allowed to gamble in casinos.

The Public Domain poll surveyed 791 people through The Bahamas using a random digit dialing methodology.

Additionally, 74% of respondents between the ages of 18 and 34 responded ‘yes’.

Of respondents 55 and over, 46% responded ‘yes’.

Back in January 2013, the then-Christie administration held a gambling referendum. Voters said they were overwhelming against the measures. Then the government ignored the results and regulated web shops anyway.

Back in May, Tourism Minister Chester Cooper said the conversation is ongoing between the gaming board and the industry, adding there will be broad-based consultation on the matter.

However, he says the matter isn’t before cabinet.

In 2013, then-Minister Responsible for Gaming Obie Wilchcombe said the policy would need to be carefully examined before any changes are made because there are social and economic considerations.

He said the restriction is the best compromise for a tourism destination and a country that has strong opposition from Bahamians participating, particularly the church.