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Apr 20, 2011
Singapore Pools, Turf Club adding to gambling concerns
DESPITE earlier reservations about the setting up of casinos in Singapore, retiring minister Lim Boon Heng appears to have come to terms with the Government's decision now that they are reported to be successful and thriving. However, he is still concerned about the potential social costs of gambling on families ('A difficult decision'; April 12).
He may have good cause to remain worried.
Fifty years ago, the Government was concerned enough about the deleterious effects to downplay all forms of gambling - including the then popular horse-racing - and take strong measures.
Today, Singapore Pools has more than 300 authorised outlets open seven days a week throughout the year. Singapore Turf Club spares no pains in promoting its 'attractions' to a relatively small group.
Singapore Pools, which initially set out to cover only 4-D and the Singapore Sweep lottery, has extended its reach to embrace betting on Toto, football, motor-racing, Scratchit! - you name it, Pools now has it.
The Turf Club and Singapore Pools declare that they take a strong 'play responsibly' stand.
The sad reality, however, is that the (sometimes desperate) need for money often lures low-wage earners to ignore this caveat and play less than responsibly, despite the daunting odds of winning.
If all these gaming establishments are indeed minting money, it can come only from a losing public.
In such a scenario, Mr Lim's fears of the potential social costs must be taken seriously.
Narayana Narayana
http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_658727.html
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