Tashia Hutton recently was named chair of the Jamaica Gaming Association. Hutton, who is vice president of Compliance and Regulatory at Supreme Ventures Limited, replaces the late SVL Chairman Brian George, who was chair of the association from its beginning in early 2016 until he died in October 2016.
Hutton said she will focus on the “issue of de-banking, which has the potential to threaten the survival of the gaming industry.” In addition, she stated she will continue to collaborate with the various regulatory agencies to continue the implementation of anti-money-laundering rules. “We must raise the awareness of the high level of regulations that govern the industry, given the lack of awareness in other sectors as to the comprehensive guidelines by which we operate,” Hutton said. She added formalizing the association and increasing its recognition also are among her goals.
In one of his last interviews, George urged industry players to increase their compliance with gaming regulations. He emphasized following “Know Your Customer” requirements as mandated under anti-money-laundering laws, and also urged the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission top adopt a zero-tolerance approach.
“I look forward to working with the team to establish an association that can move the industry forward in a systematic and sustained way. This can only benefit the industry and by extension, the country,” Hutton said.
Sizzling Slots 100 Gaming Lounge Director and owner Adam Epstein, will serve as JGA vice president.
The JGA includes the seven major players in the Jamaica gaming industry: Macau Gaming Lounge in Kingston; Treasure Hunt in Ocho Rios: Yahman Technology Limited, which operates Treasure Hunt in Montego Bay; Sizzling Slots, which manages 100 Gaming Lounge in Kingston; Everglades Farms, owners of Monte Carlo; Liguanea Lane Pharmacy, operators of Treasure Hunt in Kingston; and Supreme Ventures Limited, operators of the Acropolis Gaming Lounge in Kingston.
