Crown Limited is already under investigation by the ILGA to determine whether or not the company is a suitable candidate for a Sydney casino license. Now, NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell has requested that another investigation is held to identity potential corruption in other aspects of the new casino project.
O’Farrell’s decision to launch an addition probe is a response to allegations that influential professionals in the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy markets have been bribed by companies that are owned by crime figures and bikies. Reports show that a contract for the construction of the new Sydney casino was won by a company that is owned by George Alex, who is known to have contacts in the crime world.
As such, there are concerns that the contract was won through illegal means. "Matters like this are of serious concern, not just to the state government but also to the construction sector," O'Farrell says. To determine whether or not there is any truth to the allegations, O’Farrell has requested that an inquiry into the issue is carried out as soon as possible.
The ILGA’s inquiry on the property’s casino license will likely be finished by March, so it would be ideal if labour corruption probe is carried out before then. "There should be absolutely zero tolerance for any form of corruption or illegal activity, wherever it occurs," says John Robertson, leader of NSW’s Opposition. It is not only important for casinos to be free from corruption on the gaming floor.
Casino operators should also strive to eliminate any potential crime links throughout all aspects of the business, including during the construction process. There is no word yet on when the inquiry will take place, but we will keep you updated as the story develops.
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