Minivdo: Different Views Were Expressed On The Proposed Plan To Set Up Legalized Casinos

To see or download mini-video, go to http://news.prd.go.th/news_detail.php?newsid=216434

In response to Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej who proposed to legalize casinos in Thailand with new centres to be set up in key tourist provinces like Phuket as well as Pattaya, Khonkaen, Chiang Mai and Haad Yai, many views are being expressed in agreement or disagreement. In Phuket, one of the appointed senators Phummisak Hongsyok told Andaman News that he agrees with the idea to legalize casinos in Thailand, but thinks that the business may not suitable for Phuket as the local tourism industry here is already sustainable with natural resources and cultural values. So the government should divert the casino business to other destinations:

Meanwhile Phuket’s elected senator Thanyarat Atchariyachai spoke from her experience saying that major tourist cities usually have casinos. If it is to be introduced in Phuket, it should be strictly controlled and allowed for tourists only. She also suggests that it be built on an island to make it easy to control.

This was the same opinion as Phuket Professional Guide Association president Panomphol Thammachartniyom who agreed with the idea, but also suggested that the casinos should be restricted to tourists only. Strict checks for passports and visa, plus other regulations must be strictly imposed.

from Andaman News TV11 (VHF dial) at 8.30am & local Cable TV channel 1 + maybe FM90.5 Radio Thailand 6pm, broadcast to Phang Nga, Krabi & Phuket provinces, & possibly FM108 Mazz Radio 7.30pm in Phuket, Thursday 6 March 2008 & http://news.prd.go.th