The States rejected previous plans for a casino in Jersey in 2003

About 50 people listened to a talk from speakers from UK organisations involved in social care, including the Salvation Army, at the St Paul's Centre.

In April, the Economic Development Committee said the States could make a lot of income from taxes if they rewrote the island's gambling laws.

However, such plans are opposed by a group of local clergymen.

Lottery draws

The committee proposed several ways for islanders and visitors to gamble with their money, such as online gambling and playing bingo.

The committee is also asking the States to consider letting islanders buy tickets for other lottery draws, such as the UK National Lottery and the French Loto.

A report from it claimed any new gambling project would make the States more money in tax.

However, plans for an actual casino were rejected after a lengthy debate in the States last year.

Reverend Tim Welch, minister of Jersey Baptist Church, said he believed the general feeling at the meeting was that there was no need for a casino on the island.

He said: "There are already plenty of opportunities to gamble in place already. We do need to look at legislation to update and protect those who are vulnerable.

"But there is not seeming to be the demand for a casino."