The Editor, Sir:

I laud the Prime Minister for allowing the implementation of casino gambling. I am of a Christian background with strong belief in the creator and was taught by my parents to respect my elders. In light of the church leaders going up against casino gambling I must be allowed to comment.

As a televisiopn ad states the number one killer in Jamaica is not bad mind, or natural disaters but crime. How about constantly speaking out against that, church leaders? I don't mean a once in a while peace walk or a once in a month prayer breakfast but warning those mindless criminals that God's punishment for them will be more severe than what they do to others.

Gambling has been a part of our culture for decades, from 'drop pan' to 'cash pot'. This is here to stay. Any way of improving the economy is a good move and should be supported. The move might not be agreed by all, but to stop casino gambling would be a retrograde step. Each and every game provided by the Supreme Ventures is lucrative otherwise they would have cancelled them.

Church leaders make no attempt to stop those people who spend on these games so why try and stop casino gambling? Seriously, what's the difference? They're both games of chance that no one is forced to partake in. Pray for the nation that the crime is minimized and if possible eliminated and leave casino gambling alone.

I am, etc.,

CHARMALEE FRANKSON

cfrankson20@yahoo.com

Kitson Town

St Catherine

Via Go-Jamaica