The Reverend Dr Roy Notice of the New Testament Church of God is warning policymakers that the expansion of gambling opportunities in Jamaica could create enormous problems for the country and its citizens in the long run.

Notice purports that the deepening of the gambling culture, especially in the midst of an economic crisis, could eventually harm many Jamaicans, as they become hooked on the practice, getting trapped in debt and increased financial woes.

"It's just strange that we could be dangling all kinds of ills in front of people's eyes when people are losing jobs and people are really struggling economically," he says.

Notice was speaking against the background of the recently announced decision to have horse racing on Sundays, a topic that has always been controversial.

Races over the years have traditionally been held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The additional day is expected to facilitate the introduction of a range of new exotic bets. It is estimated that Sunday racing will attract 50 per cent more business than Wednesday racing.

economical gains

Notice questions the sociological costs of Jamaica's potential economical gains. He argues that making money cannot be at the expense of a number of social issues, including social justice, environmental protection and the protection of the fabric of the family.

"The Government has to try to find a balance. Yes, they need to make money, but there are other ways," Notice argues.