PM’s moral stance on gambling a good signal

Fundamentally, the quality of a society is based upon the moral philosophy of that society...The disease of gambling certainly appeared to be getting out of hand. A resolute stand by a prime minister, which signals an opposite direction, will understandably be a welcome one.

Despite various forms of protests coming from the gaming (gambling) industry, Prime Minister Patrick Manning continues to hold fast to his “moral position” for keeping the industry in check. While we do understand the anxieties of employees who feel that their job security would be directly affected, the Prime Minister must be applauded for taking what is indeed a courageous, responsible and necessary stand. In his 2003/2004 budget presentation, Manning indicated that with immediate  effect, there would be an increase in the taxes in the gaming industry. The taxes on slot machines, tables and devices were increased from $2000 per annum to $10,000. The fee for regular poker table is now $20,000 up from $8,000 and all other tables (except pool tables) are increased by twenty-five percent.

We are aware that questions could be raised about other similar “morally hazardous” operations, which appear to go untouched. But a start must be made somewhere. And, as they say, a little good is better than none at all! The signal sent by Manning and his Government, in this particular case, is therefore an appropriate one. This column as well as other voices in the religious community, have been very vocal in condemning gambling and its related evils in TT. We have repeatedly blasted various Governments for introducing and endorsing some of these “games” and granting legal status to same. A resolute stand by a prime minister, which signals an opposite direction, will understandably be a welcome one.

In the Church, we have been looking on with deep concerns at the rapid spread of gambling activities in our country. Things certainly appeared to be getting out of hand. But I must admit that the average one among us was of the view that the Government was either turning a blind eye, or in their books, it just didn’t matter. So it was particularly heartening to see that the Government was in fact being vigilant. We can certainly do with more of such pleasant surprises, in terms of moral issues. With respect to job security involving casino employees, the Prime Minister has also reacted quite responsibly, maintaining a humane flavour. Manning clarified that his Government had looked at the possibility of job loss in the gaming industry, but there was no need to fear since the workers who may be so affected could find alternative employment in the Government’s many job creation initiatives.

Whether or not we are willing to admit it, fundamentally, the quality of a society is based upon the moral philosophy of that society. It is said, for example, that as the family goes, so goes the nation. And nothing affects the quality of family life more than moral values (including the spiritual, of course.) Look at what’s taking place with families, practically on a global scale, as traditional family values are thrown out the window and scorned as “old fashioned.” The sanctity of marriage and sex is considered foolishness by the “liberal thinkers.” Therefore, for a man to have children around every corner with any number of women, and then abandon them like common animals, is no longer immoral or sinful. It is just a matter of “living life.” Fornication and adultery are similarly captioned. There are no absolutes or value system. The natural consequences therefore are dysfunctional families and a society of shame, crime and disaster in general.

The point is, morality is so critically fundamental to decent, Godly and fulfilling lifestyle in a truly civilised society, that it must be kept centre stage at all times. Any true leader, whether prime minister, teacher, pastor or priest, would have no qualms about making morality a prime factor in his/her functions. According to reports, Mr Manning also met directly with representatives of the gaming industry at his White Hall office on November 12. It was learnt that at this meeting Manning re-emphasised his moral position. A news release from the office of the Prime Minister, subsequent to that meeting, also noted that there were casino operations which were illegal, and this was also a major item of concern to the Prime Minister and his Government.

The release stated in part, “While the Prime Minister understood and appreciated the concerns of the representatives, he re-iterated to the team that casinos, which are run on the premises of most of the Private Members Clubs, are illegal and the Government must implement mechanisms to constrain, and where possible eliminate illegal activity. However, the Prime Minister agreed to the request of the representatives and told them that the Government will undertake a study of the industry.” Mr Manning also stated in a previous press conference that although the operations of these casinos are illegal, the Government was not about to take a “sledge hammer approach” to solve the problem. Gambling is a disease, which, if left unchecked can become an epidemic of disastrous proportions. It is highly addictive and a menace to society. It undermines decent human living and provides fodder for virtually every evil. Stand strong, Mr Prime Minister.