Monarch Resorts has received a provisional postponement for liquor provision at its Barangaroo project in Sydney. Although the initial permits were scheduled to terminate in October 2021, the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) has prolonged them until June 30, 2022. This continuation pertains to three permits encompassing diverse non-gaming taverns and eateries within the complex.
It’s noteworthy that this doesn’t alter Monarch’s incapacity to conduct gambling activities at the site. The ILGA is currently examining Monarch’s replies to the Bergin Inquiry, which revealed substantial deficiencies in its operations. The ILGA has emphasized that Monarch must implement considerable modifications before it can be deemed appropriate to possess a casino license.
Twelve months following a probe into their Barangaroo gaming permit by the ILGA, Crown Resorts has presented a series of fresh assurances to authorities, aiming to secure the green light to launch their casino. This development follows the ILGA inquiry’s initial conclusion that Crown lacked the suitability to retain the license.
What commitments are they making? They’ve pledged to cover a portion of the expenses incurred by Commissioner Patricia Bergin’s investigation (the very inquiry that put them in this predicament!), contribute to casino oversight charges, sever connections with all overseas gaming intermediaries, implement a fully cashless system within the casino, and gradually eliminate indoor smoking.
The IGLA Chair summarized the situation by stating, “Reflecting on the period since February of this year, it’s evident that Crown has made significant progress in collaborating with us.” Their actions suggest an attempt to mend fences and hope for a favorable outcome.