CABINET NOTES: The Cabinet invited three officials from the Antigua Turf Club to provide a report on their effort to raise capital in order to bring the Cassada Garden Racetrack back into operation.

Horse racing in Antigua has been on hold for several years since the deterioration of the racing track has made the sport unattractive.

The group out of St. Croix, USVI, who accompanied the leaders of the Turf Club planned to spend approximately US$5 million to repair the track and buildings and viewing stands, and to refurbish another building on Old Parham Road where a slot machine casino would be built, and to construct an off-track-betting building at Cassada Gardens where bets could be routinely received.

The Cabinet has reserved its decision until next Cabinet meeting, primarily to afford the Minister of Finance (Prime Minister Browne) to play a role in the decision-making.