The gambling clubs in Paris are facing a dire situation as they may be forced to shut down indefinitely on December 31 due to the ongoing political crisis in France. These clubs, known as clubs de jeux, have been operating in the French capital since 2017 as a result of a 1919 law that prohibited casinos in Paris. These establishments are licensed to offer table games but not slots or roulette.
The agreement allowing these clubs to operate is set to expire on December 31, and it was expected to be extended. However, the political crisis in France, which has led to the collapse of the government and a political deadlock, has left the country without the authority to agree on an extension. This has put the future of these clubs in jeopardy, as they may have to close down while Parisians turn to underground gambling clubs.
France is currently in the midst of a political storm following legislative elections that came after the dismissal of the National Assembly. The elections failed to produce a majority and did not pass the finance bill needed to provide a budget for 2025, leading to the collapse of Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government. A three-way deadlock between France’s centrists, right-wing, and left-wing parties has left the country without a viable government, as the Prime Minister can only act with the consent of the legislature.
The impact of this crisis is significant, particularly on the country’s poker scene. PokerStars announced the indefinite cancellation of EPT Paris, the country’s most prestigious poker event, due to the ongoing situation. Over 1,000 people are employed by the clubs de jeux in Paris, and it is uncertain whether they will have jobs to return to after the Christmas holidays.
Christine Bonneau, the managing director of Club Barrière, expressed concern over the situation, calling it an economic and social catastrophe. She emphasized the uncertainty faced by the teams and urged the future government to find a solution quickly. Sebastian Leclercq, the country manager for the Circus club de jeux, also highlighted the challenges faced by the establishments in navigating the current situation with no clear laws or financial support available.
Overall, the political crisis in France has cast a shadow over the future of gambling clubs in Paris, impacting not only the establishments themselves but also the livelihoods of many individuals employed in the industry. The uncertainty surrounding the extension of the agreement and the lack of government support have created a challenging and unprecedented situation for the clubs and their employees.