the goan I network
MARGAO
Congress MLA Reginaldo Lourenco has demanded that the government come out with a White Paper on the number of Goans employed in each of the casinos operating in the State, claiming that one would find people from across the country and Nepal employed in managerial positions in casinos at the cost of Goans.
He also demanded that the government make available Rs 50 stamp paper in the market as the shortage has hit hard the common man.
Addressing the media, the Curtorim MLA made it clear that he is against the operation of casinos in the State since gambling has devastated many Goan families over the years. At the same time, however, he demanded to know whether Goans have benefitted in terms of employment, more so when the BJP had in 2012 announced to provide jobs to 50,000 unemployed Goans.
Demanding to know why no action has been taken by the Parrikar government against casino owners who have defaulted Goemkars on salary payment front, Reginaldo said Goemkars working in casinos are powerless as the redressal mechanism for their grievances hardly exists from the Goa government. “The White Paper should also enumerate at what posts Goans are employed in these gambling houses. And, till date, why no action has been taken by the Manohar Parrikar government against casino owns, who have defaulted Goemkars in respect of payment of salaries,” he said.
Replying to a question, Reginaldo said he would salute the Chief Minister on the floor of the House even if it is found that the casinos are employing 70 per cent of Goans.
Claiming that casinos issue catch job advertisements in the media in order to get the gaming licence, the Congress MLA however, regretted that there’s a wide gap in the ground reality when it comes to employing Goans
in casinos.
