DSAL says no voluntary resignation scheme for satellite casino workers

The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) has said that no gaming concessionaire is currently offering a “voluntary resignation programme” for staff employed at satellite casinos.

The bureau said it is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to safeguarding workers’ rights during the ongoing transition of these casino operations.

In a recently released statement, the bureau confirmed it had contacted Galaxy Entertainment Group, SJM Holdings, and Melco Resorts & Entertainment – operators responsible for most of the manpower at the city’s 11 satellite casinos. All three companies denied offering any resignation or early retirement packages.

“If any such scheme is implemented, it must be voluntary and meet legal compensation standards,” the bureau stated, adding that no formal complaints or requests for help had been filed so far.

The three-year transition period for satellite casinos is expected to conclude by early next year, in accordance with the revised gaming law passed in 2022.

Under the new regulations, all satellite casino operations must either be fully owned by a gaming concessionaire or operate under a formal management agreement. The law also restricts management fees to a maximum of 15%, ending the previous profit-sharing arrangements with third parties.

The policy shift could impact up to 6,000 workers, the majority of whom are under the employment of the three major operators.

Meanwhile, as the industry navigates the restructuring, tourism authorities plan to stimulate demand in the NAPE and ZAPE districts.

Tourism chief Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes announced upcoming initiatives involving online travel agencies, with targeted promotions for hotels in these areas. Group tours and study trips are expected to play a  role in boosting visitation as the transition deadline approaches. Times Reporter