Should Casinos be allowed in Tonga? [1]
Thursday, January 26, 2017 - 17:46. Updated on Thursday, January 26, 2017 - 17:47.
Should Casinos be allowed in Tonga? Matangi Tonga asked five members of the public for their opinions in a random survey.
Lupe Puloka (28), Social Worker
"I disagree with gambling and having a casino is only supporting it. One of the issues with gambling in Tonga is bingo and it affects a lot of people in the community and society. Our office is located right next door to the bingo place. Not only is it annoying with noise pollution but seeing women bring their kids to the gambling...they're not staying at home supporting them and educating them."
Taikosama Tupoumalohi (47), Gardener, Haveluliku
"I think it is unfit for Tonga. If we think about Tonga's past when the land was dedicated to god...I think this is a huge problem for Tonga to think about establishing a casino in Tonga."
Tilila Fonua, Grandmother, Vaotu'u
"With regards to establishing a casino in Tonga, in my opinion a casino should not be established in Tonga. The reason is that it's not good for our young people because they will focus on gambling and not on rightful things."
Rev. Taniela Manu (FWC), Nukunuku
"I think that establishing a casino in Tonga will test the faith of Christians."
Rev. Tevita Haukinima (FWC), Nuku'alofa
"It might bring about problems in society that will affect the people. We all know of casinos overseas and the difficulties that it brings and I think the same thing will happen in Tonga."