In an economy racked by widespread unemployment, is the opportunity to create tens of thousands of jobs worth granting an exception on Spain’s strict anti-smoking legislation?
That’s the question currently facing the Spanish government as it considers meeting Las Vegas Sands’ condition to invest upwards of €17 billion in its EuroVegas megaresort complex in Madrid.
In line with most European legislation, smoking has been forbidden indoors in Spain since 2011, and research suggests smoking addiction in Spain is falling, along with health-related issues like asthma and costs to the overburdened social security system.
But Sands believes patron smoking is critical to the success of the all-important casino portion of EuroVegas, and the conservative government of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, facing a protracted recession and record 27 percent unemployment, seems inclined to accede to the demand.
“Governments have to balance their decisions. The health of Spaniards is a priority, [but] the government will analyze all factors that have an impact on a bid that can generate jobs,” said Health Secretary Pilar Fargas recently.
The government neither confirms nor denies reports that an exemption is in the works. But Madrid regional leader Ignacio González, a member of Rajoy’s Popular Party, said he expects the exemption and other legal obstacles to be resolved this month.
Rajoy has also indicated his support. After Adelson met privately with him in May, the Spanish leader said that while there was no decision yet on the smoking ban, “We do think it’s a good project because it will create many jobs in this country.”
Adelson has suggested separately that he is confident the smoking ban would be lifted.
But easing the smoking ban is controversial and unpopular. More than 80 percent of people said they oppose any exceptions to anti-smoking laws, according to a May survey conducted by the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine, and it is certain to be challenged in the courts by anti-smoking groups and opposition political parties. It could also contravene European Union rules that are in the process of being drafted.
