In the recently delivered annual Throne Speech, Bermuda Premier Michael Dunkley announced the government will introduce legislation to establish a domestic gaming industry and a Bermuda Casino Gaming Commission.
“I look forward to a well-informed and robust debate on gaming for Bermuda. Over several months the Minister of Tourism Development and Transport and his technical team have overseen a detailed drafting process and I am sure that the eventual bill will comprehensively address all aspects required for the successful introduction of gaming in Bermuda,” Dunkley said.
Dunkley said legislation, to be discussed in the upcoming Parliamentary session, also will include developing the hotel industry through new construction, redevelopment of existing facilities and increased visitor numbers.
Dunkley noted the Bermuda Tourism Authority has invested $25 million in growing Bermuda’s tourism industry, with an emphasis on casino gaming and the cruise industry. In his speech, Dunkley pointed out the government will finalize channel upgrades to accommodate more and larger cruise ships.
A spokesman for the Bermuda Tourism Authority said the BTA “is pleased with the hospitality industry legislative goals in the Throne Speech as it relates to hotel development, gaming and the cruise industry. We believe the items mentioned in these areas will help increase jobs and grow economic activity to the benefit of Bermuda. More jobs and a growing economy are chief among our goals at the BTA and we are confident all legislators share these ambitions.”
