Wigtown and stranraer presbytery join casino protest

Jun 11 2008 by Doug Archibald, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

THE KIRK has joined the anti casino lobby at Stranraer.

After lengthy discussions the presbytery of Wigtown and Stranraer came down in favour of the local church adding its voice to those speaking out against the development.

The move follows a decision by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland last month that committed local presbyteries and churches to speak out against casino developments.

Stranraer was the only place in Scotland successful in being awarded a casino licence by the Government earlier this year.

Those in favour see it as an integral part of the multi-million pound redevelopment of the town, which also includes a new yachting marina.

However, fears have been voiced about the dangers of gambling. Now the churches in Wigtownshire say they will be taking their opposition forward in a practical way.

The presbytery agreed to encourage the council to bring forward proposals for the economic regeneration of the area that do not involve establishing a casino in Stranraer.

Members also decided to formally write to relevant council officers expressing their opposition.

Presbytery spokesman, Machars minister the Rev Alex Currie said: “There is no question that everyone in the community wants to see a thriving economy in Stranraer.

“However, we feel that it is our duty as part of the Christian community in Wigtownshire to state publicly that gambling should not be regarded as the tool that will bring our community the economic regeneration it desires.

“Studies conducted by the Church of Scotland have shown that gambling is associated with a variety of social problems, and we would prefer to see economic development without these consequences.”