Gaming labor union wants to ban abusive patrons

Sunday 31st of July 2016

The Macau Gaming Enterprises Staff’s Association is calling for the government to blacklist gamblers with previous bad behavior, local media reports.

The call comes after a recent case involving a casino dealer who was physically abused while on duty.

“He [the patron] picked up the card as soon as I shuffled it to him. Not only did he crumple it but he threw it right at my face,” said Chio, recounting her story. “What’s more? He slapped my face. I felt extremely humiliated and dizzy afterwards.”

Chio, who describes the encounter as physical abuse, has already sought assistance from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) and the Labor Affairs Bureau (DSAL).

Miss Chio is not the only victim. The gaming staff association said that, in the past three months, they have received at least six similar cases.

Choi Kam Fu, director-general of the Macau Gaming Enterprises Staff’s Association wants a ban to be imposed on gamblers with a history of violence toward casino staff.

“Spitting at their [dealers’] faces is not so serious,” said Choi. “Sometimes they [patrons] hit their face or pull out weapons... We're starting to realise things are getting more and more serious and that's why we think the government should beef up monitoring efforts."

“The authorities should ban them from entering casinos if they have previously committed such violent acts,” he added.

The DICJ has informed that they are now cooperating with the Judiciary Police to follow up on the case, and welcome any suggestions on how to protect gaming workers.

Bricks & Mortar Ban Staff Labor Gambler