TALKS will be held in mid-November to discuss whether to allow a casino in the government controlled areas of Cyprus, with consultations between Commerce Minister George Lillikas and the political parties.
With large number of Greek Cypriots crossing into the occupied areas to gamble their money away at Turkish Cypriot casinos and in light of falling tourism arrivals, Lillikas believes setting up a casino could solve both problems in one go.
DISY deputy and member of the House Finance Committee Prodromos Prodromou yesterday told the Cyprus Mail that there was disagreement over the issue in parliament. “At the moment, there are no definite plans for a casino in Cyprus, only talks on the matter. The main reason the topic of a casino was brought up by Lillikas in the summer was to help tourism. The CTO, hoteliers and chamber of commerce are in favour of a casino as they too believe it will increase Cyprus’ tourism,” said Prodromou.
“However, a main concern is that a casino will be a bad influence on people and just bring fast riches to the owners. AKEL has clearly stated that the party is against the operation of a casino,” continued Prodromou.
But he added that Finance Minister Marcos Kyprianou saw the issue in a positive light and said it would bring Cyprus out of its tourism rut.
“The matter is only to be discussed. No decisions have been reached. It is up to the government to make an informed decision, so a study must first be conducted outlining the positive and negative effects a casino would have in Cyprus,” said Prodromou.
“Some members of the government believe a casino would be beneficial to Cyprus’ status and economy, while others believe it would only bring destruction as did the Cyprus Stock Exchange.”
Prodromou’s DISY is positive about a casino. “Yes, it may cause a social problem but there are ways to operate, for example, not to let anyone in. We cannot join Europe and be the only country not to have a casino because we are worried our citizens will gamble their money away.”
If a casino is opened in Cyprus, it will not be run by the state, but the owners will have to gain licences. Prodromou said there would be a need for tough regulation to prevent problems such as money laundering.
“The matter of whether or not a casino will be operated in Cyprus has yet to be discussed, let alone who will run it or where it will be. I do foresee problems due to strong opposition from AKEL.”
