The Government is being criticised for not empowering the country's people to invest their natural beauty and cultural talents, rather than continuing the debate on legalising casino gambling.

The comments were made by the Reverend Dr. Roy Notice as he delivered the main message at the National Leadership Prayer Break-fast, held yesterday at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

Games of chance

"But, shouldn't we be looking to scale down our indulgence in games of chance and instead be rekindling a stronger work ethic in this country?" asked Rev. Dr. Notice.

Rev. Dr. Notice, pastor of Mandeville New Testament Church of God, called on Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett to assist in transforming a seemingly poor work ethic that is coupled with a get-rich-quick mentality in the island.

"Come on Minister Bartlett. I am sure, especially with your Pentecostal background, that you will receive great inspiration so that you can begin to engage us in more meaningful things," he said.

"Why not explore the benefits of religious tourism, why not work on making Jamaica the conference Mecca of the Caribbean?" the pastor asked.

In response to his comments, Mr. Bartlett told The Gleaner there was a niche for all forms of tourism in the island.