Hard Rock Casino in Barcelona, Spain Hosts ICE Gaming Summit Amidst Political Tensions
As the year draws to a close, Hard Rock International and the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) summit might become a political tool in Catalonia, Spain. The recent remarks made by Catalonia's Minister of Health, Manel Balcells, suggest that not everyone is thrilled about the prospect of either of these entities arriving in the region.
For years, London has been the site of the International Casino Exhibition (ICE). With tens of thousands of participants and industry representatives attending to discuss the evolving landscape of gaming, the conference has been met with much praise by the gaming world.
However, Balcells seems to have taken aim at ICE and Hard Rock's planned Barcelona World in Salou and Vila-seca, which has been generating controversy since its inception. In one sentence, he summed up his stance - gambling is a negative force.
Against Society's Interests
The construction of Barcelona World, featuring a casino and sports betting rooms, garnered support from Catalonia's government. It was one of the primary justifications for the project receiving budget approvals from the Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC).
The resort would encompass buildings over 246 feet tall and provide 322,917 square feet of space for gaming and betting. However, concerns about environmental harm and shady dealings by Hard Rock have put the project on hold.
Approximately six weeks ago, the government of Catalonia voted to proceed with the project after it once again resurfaced during budget negotiations. An underlying argument surfaced, claiming that facilities like Barcelona World endanger public health due to their pro-gambling stance.
Balcells opposes the development of Barcelona World, telling Catalunya Radio this week that the project "contradicts what we defend from a health perspective."
His skepticism comes at a time when the transfer of ICE to Barcelona is being publicized. For 30 years, London served as the host city for the event. But Clarion Gaming, the company behind the trade show and summit, collaborated with the industry to find a new location.
Set to commence in Barcelona starting in 2025, the summit boasts over 45K attendees and a reported economic impact of €280 million (US$307.32 million). Balcells also shared his thoughts on the move during his interview with Catalunya Radio, suggesting a degree of disdain.
"Anything that encourages gambling and enhances the risk of compulsive gambling is detrimental to public health," he said. He went on to add, "Gambling is a major issue...from a health perspective, we can only take a stance against it."
Political Crossroads
Catalonia's government did not respond to a request for comment, despite Balcells' comments suggesting disappointment with the gambling expansion in and around Barcelona.
Politics in Catalonia have reached a turning point, with snap elections coming later this year. The gaming industry may find itself in a significant role in the political arena.
Spain is set to hold an election in October to select a new prime minister. The reigning Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) is facing a challenge from a right-wing coalition comprising the Popular Party and a more recent newcomer, Vox.
Vox is trying to prevent any discussion of political succession, something that's been a subject of debate among Catalonia's government for some time. Yet, it has now backed down. It claims it will only play a minor role in governance to "prevent a government of national destruction" that it believes the PSOE is creating.
With Vox stepping back, the Popular Party would have to win the elections without assistance. Current polling suggests no party has enough votes, potentially requiring a second vote.
The disparity in opinions about gambling in Catalonia may help one party or another gain momentum. By aligning with public opinion, parties can win support and avoid the need for a second vote.
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Source: www.casino.org
