In a statement that could have far-reaching consequences, newly-appointed Ports Minister Michael Lobo said he is not averse to the idea of shifting the offshore casinos to Aguada Bay and the casino boarding points to the Verem bank of the River Mandovi. Replying to the cut motions to the demands on Ports, Lobo said he would take Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, Leader of the Opposition Digambar Kamat and Panjim MLA Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate into confidence.
“The idea of shifting the casino vessel has been mooted by the Panjim MLA and I assure to study the matter and will also take him for a joint survey of the place,” he said. Lobo said while he is not averse to the idea of shifting casinos, the sole intention is that casino passengers should not be affected.
Monserrate, who appeared agitated and unsatisfied, said that at any cost the casino jetties from Panjim need to be moved out and the Corporation of City of Panaji will not renew their trade licences once they expire. On shifting of the boarding points, Lobo said there is enough place in Verem but he will need to take the Saligao MLA into confidence.