The Samuel L. Jackson celebrity golf tournament that plans to bring some of the world's most popular film stars to the Island next year, will go ahead whether or not the Department of Tourism supports the venture.

Discussions are set to take place between local banks, Tourism, and tournament organisers today and tomorrow.

Peter Godber of the Montreal-based marketing firm Canadian Connection Sports & Entertainment which is promoting the tournament, said he hoped talks would be productive and that support from local companies and the Ministry of Tourism would be forthcoming. He estimated that the event would cost more than a $1 million.

"Support from the Department of Tourism would be nice,'' he said. "I have met with Wayne Smith and Pat Philip Bassett and we will be having more talks.

There is a lot of interest in this tournament.

"Bermuda is really unique with its small atmosphere. It's very sexy.'' Yesterday saw the arrival of Mr. Jackson who went straight from the Airport to the Marriott's Castle Harbour golf course for a round. Mr. Jackson flew into Bermuda from New Orleans where he has been directing a small independent film called "Eve's Bayou.'' On Friday another film starring the talented actor opened called "The Long Kiss Goodnight''.

It is showing this week in theatres across the US and in Bermuda and comes closely on the heels of the emotive drama "A Time to Kill.'' Mr. Jackson is hosting the golf tourney to raise millions for his favourite charity The Catalogue for Giving and a local charity yet to be chosen.

"I like this one because it is a group of charities that all help children,'' he told The Royal Gazette . "The money is designated and it is easy to keep track of so you can be sure that it gets to those who need it.

"This will be a chance for me to actually do something real for this charity rather than just loaning my name.

"It's also allows me to get other people involved, aware and participating in it. Also it's nice for them to come down here and to see Bermuda and I hope some of them see it as a place to spend some of their free time.

"I am hoping that this celebrity golf tournament will be a great event that everyone will look forward to each year. I want it to inject money into Bermuda as well as to ensure that The Catalogue for Giving is able to do all the things it wants to do.'' Jackson arrives Among the celebrities who will be invited to the tournament are former US president George Bush and vice president Dan Quayle, actors Sean Connery, Sylvester Stallone, Kevin Costner, Heather Locklear, Bruce Willis, Richard Roundtree, Cheryl Ladd, Don Johnson, musician Eddie Van Halen.

However Mr. Godber said the final celebrity tally will depend on the stars' work schedules. Invitations will be sent out after Christmas.

The tournament -- which has been labelled the most dazzling celebrity benefit golf classic of the century -- is tentatively slated for May 2 through 4, with celebrities and other guests scheduled to arrive on April 30.

While the celebrities' main aim will be to raise money for charity, they will also enjoy a comedy benefit evening, a beach party, and a gala benefit dinner.

Among the list of corporate sponsors are Reebok Corporation, Kodak, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Warner Brothers, Planet Hollywood, AT&T, Marriott Corporation and Delta Air Lines.

Local sponsors include the Bank of Bermuda, Bank of Butterfield, and Princess Hotels.

"None of these celebrities have been to Bermuda before so they will be in for a real treat,'' Mr. Godber added.

Additionally, Mr. Godber said the Island will be able to show off its wares because a host of international media including Entertainment Tonight, Extra, Good Morning America as well as newspapers and magazines are expected to converge on the Island. They include; People, Rolling Stone, Golf Digest, GQ, USA Today, the Boston Herald, The New York Times, and the Globe and Mail.