The Federal Budget of the Christmas Island has announced recently that it is to close detention centers across the island. Due to this, officials called for a casino license to be granted, as a gambling venue would boost the local economy.
Gordon Thomson, President of the Shire of Christmas Island and union boss, said that their primary goal now is to reach representatives for detention center operator Serco and to discuss the future of the workers that are to lose their jobs once the facilities close doors. According to Mr. Thomson, between 20 and 50 people are to remain unemployed. He also pointed out that he had repeatedly tried to contact Serco management.
Earlier this week, Christmas Island Treasurer Joe Hockey announced that several immigration detention centers are to be shuttered and this would result in A$554.5 million being saved over the course of the next five years.
Mr. Thomson commented on the Federal Budget’s decision as one that did not consider the fact that a lot of people would lose their jobs. Furthermore, he said that no alternative solutions had been offered regarding the workers that were employed at the detention facilities.
The Shire President pointed out that another industry needs to be developed to replace the closed centers. According to him, the future of the Christmas Island would be best secured, if it is granted a new casino license. As he pointed out himself, the former Christmas Island Resort could be relaunched as a gambling venue.
Mr. Thomson said he believes the new casino would attract high-roller players from Singapore, Jakarta, and other Asian countries.
Last year, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Committee for Northern Development released a report, which suggested that the island should develop sustainable industries such as tourism, in order to boost its economy. It stated its support for the reopening of the Christmas Island casino.
The Christmas Island Resort was first opened in 1993. In 1998, however, the Federal Government canceled its license due to profitability, an Asian economic crisis, management issues, etc.
The property spreads over a 47-hectare site in the northeastern part of the island. It is located not far from the airport. It features as many as 156 rooms and suites. Back in the 1990s, when the venue was operational, its casino had a total of 43 slot machines and 23 gaming tables. Visitors were also offered various dining and entertainment options.
