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The
Straits Times, 4 Sep 04
Catholic Church opposed to casino here
Though it does not prohibit gambling, it fears high social cost if
more addicts are created
THE Catholic Church is opposed to the idea of building a casino in
Singapore, a position which mirrors that of some other religious groups
here. Although the Church does not prohibit gambling per se, it feels
the casino will exact a high social cost by creating more gambling
addicts. 'We are against gambling which leads to the detriment of
the individual, his family and the community,' said Archbishop Nicholas
Chia in a statement yesterday.
The Government, long averse to the idea of a casino here because of
its potential harm to society, is considering reversing the ban because
of competition for the tourist dollar from places with casinos, such
as Batam. It will make a decision by January after a careful study
of its implications as well as extensive consultations.
At least two big developers, CapitaLand and the Hong Leong Group,
have reportedly had talks with foreign gaming operators to explore
possible tie-ups.
The casino idea is opposed by both the National Council of Churches
of Singapore, which represents the Anglicans, Methodists and Presbyterians,
and Pergas, the Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers
Association.
Archbishop Chia, in his four-page statement yesterday, said research
in the United States found the gambling industry fosters vice, boosts
gambling addiction and causes families to break up. He asked: 'Can
we not do better than resort to casinos? It is not the best long-term
strategy for sound economic development. How much is greed the motive?'
Criticising the possible restriction of entry to the proposed casino
here, he said: 'If the Government intends the casino for tourists
of the region and restricts the admission of locals in order to lessen
social costs, how will that denote us as a caring or gracious society?'
He added: 'Just as we continue to strongly discourage drug abuse,
smoking and excessive drinking for the good of the country and people,
we should also discourage casino gambling by educating one and all
on the dangers of gambling addiction.' |
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