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Comments on the DHSS's consultation paper on Casinos and Gaming are to be lodged today, Friday 11th April and in its response the Presbyterian Church has said that the changes discussed would further erode the religious and social stability of the country.
The Church argues that morally there are no grounds to sanction any form of gambling. 'The chance of winning prizes greater that the original stake reinforces feelings of discontentment and want among a considerable number of people,' says Rev Robin Greer, Convener of the Presbyterian Church's ADE Committee that monitors gambling.
'The existing controls that limit access to gambling and which the consultation document suggests removing have helped curb the wider interest and consequent harm of gambling. This control means that we have fewer and less dramatic problems than our more liberal European counterparts. It is interesting to note that the growth of the National Lottery has influenced a rise of around 20% in people seeking counselling through Gambler's Anonymous.'
Another concern of the Church is the suggestion to open Bookmakers and to allow for on-course betting on Sundays. 'As a sacred day of religious worship, observance and rest, Sunday is an absolute non-starter for any kind of unnecessary labour,' added Mr Greer. 'If these proposals were realised it would create an unhealthy seven day betting culture.'
The church is particularly concerned that the government is being strongly influenced by economic and business considerations without giving due weight to the moral issues involved.
'In view of the fact that the last consultation which rejected any changes in the law took place as recently as 1994, we believe that this consultation is unnecessary. Coming so soon, we believe it can be seen as part of an intense long term strategy to cultivate and prepare opinion, which at first was emphatically opposed to any change, into acceptance. The changes under discussion do not serve the best interests of Northern Ireland and it would appear to us that tax revenue and commercial profits are at the heart of any proposals,' said Mr Greer.
Issued by Stephen Lynas, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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