News that NAf. 2 million in fiscal arrears has been received from casinos (see related story) is most welcome. Finance Minister Richards Gibson is certainly right in his assertion that one should first collect what is outstanding before considering tax increases or
new taxes.
Of course, it’s only a relatively small portion of the total NAf. 12.3 million reportedly owed by the sector, but another payment of NAf. 650,000 is scheduled for October and after that NAf. 195,000 per month. At that rate it will take several years to recover the entire amount, while current fees must still be paid promptly to prevent new debts, but a major first step has in any case been taken.
The next move should be to have the long-awaited Gaming Control Board (GCB) up and running sooner rather than later. After all, the same Minister was said to be “putting the final touches” on this matter more than a month ago.
It’s important also in light of frequent allegations especially from The Hague that the entire gambling industry on the island is characterised by organised crime, corruption and widespread money-laundering. Although that may be incorrect or at the very least a gross generalisation, it has become a dogged perception that needs to change and a trustworthy, well-functioning GCB can play a key role in doing so.
