Authorities probe Wynn Macau over smoking violations

Monday 26th of October 2015

Macau authorities are looking into allegations that Wynn Macau breached smoking rules after 70 of the casino’s employees went on strike to protest against the management's violations, TDM Macau reported.

According to the workers, Wynn allegedly turned a mass market gaming area into a smoking lounge.

The Health Bureau, the Labour Affairs Bureau and the Gaming Inspection and Co-ordination Bureau responded to the workers' appeal and carried out an inspection into the alleged breach.

The inspection showed the area of the casino had no anti-smoking signs, with its staff even providing guests with ashtrays.

Authorities launched administrative proceedings against Wynn to immediately enforce the rules on indoor smoking control, which means setting up anti-smoking signs in widely visible locations, and providing guidance to prevent people from smoking.

The lack of no-smoking signs alone could lead to fines from MOP10,000 ($1,252) to MOP100,000.

Wynn Macau said there was a misinterpretation of the legal rules and stressed that they have reversed the area's transformation.

But staff representatives have doubts.

"Authorities have already sent people to inspect the casino, but the gaming operator would rather get fined than improve the situation. I think the punishment is too weak and they will keep on repeating the same violation," TDM quoted Cloee Chao as saying.