Vote set for mid-October
The Democratic Progressive Party of Taiwan has once again come out against casinos on the island of Penghu in the Taiwan Strait.
According to the China Post, lawmakers say there are better ways to boost tourism to the island. A second referendum on the matter is set for October 15.
In a statement, DPP spokesman Huang Shih-cho said the party will strive to protect Penghu’s sustainability and does not wish to see any damage to the archipelago’s natural environment or unique culture.
Gambling is prohibited in Taiwan, but in January 2009 the legislature passed an amendment to the Offshore Islands Development Act allowing outlying islands to establish tourist casinos if their residents voted for the plan.
The first referendum was held in September of that year in Penghu. More than 56 percent of islanders voted against the plan, and 43.56 in favor.
