The head of the David Group Fiji casino project, Sandeep Singh, says the proposed $2 billion casino project would be detached from the local community.
At a media conference yesterday, Mr Singh said Fijian citizens would not be allowed to enter the casino.
“While a casino may be a lucrative inclusion to the Fijian tourism landscape, we must mitigate against the local community being exposed to gambling,” Mr Singh said.
“And in line with the ethos of the Government and stakeholders such as the Methodist Church of Fiji.
“Fijian citizens will not be allowed to enter the casino and our strict security protocols will ensure that this requirement is upheld.”
Mr Singh said the group was adamant it would give back to the Government and people of Fiji.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, the group would contribute in the following ways:
- The David Group is in agreement with a 5 per cent gambling turnover tax;
- David Group will establish a charity trust with members of religious, civic and government stakeholders;
- This charity trust will provide support to education, youth development and welfare endeavours in Fiji;
- It will be funded through an annual allocation of 4 per cent of net income similar to the Singapore Pools and PAGCOR in the Philippines; and
- The group will give an additional $500,000 to the Ministry of Sports annually for the development of grassroots rugby.
Mr Singh has met Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica to inform him of the proposed casino.
“He is aware of the investment and said that I needed to do consultations with the people to convince them of the project,” he added.
