LAS CIC described a go around event resulting from less than adequate spacing provided by the Local Controller between an arrival and departure. The reporter indicated the current training standard is inadequate.

Narrative

The LC1 controller was working LC1 and 2 combined. He cleared Aircraft Y for take off on Runway 25R; failing to notice that his lander on the intersecting runway was a three mile final; but still doing 210 knots. I saw the problem; and told him to cancel the take off clearance. He replied; 'It's going to work'; and did not do so. I then instructed him a second time; and was ignored. I instructed him to send Aircraft X around; as there was no way this was going to work. I told him this 2 or three times; and the only response I got was 'It's safer to let him land'. I disagreed; but this all happened in a few moments; and I was unable to get him to follow my directions. Aircraft X decided to go around on his own; later stating he was 'too high and too fast'; resulting in the Aircraft X overflying the departing Aircraft Y at the intersection by about 400 ft. The ASDE-X alert went off for the landing aircraft; but after he had already started his go-around. Recommendation; teach the newer controllers that a CIC has the same authority as a FLM; and that orders to cancel a take off clearance or issue a go-around are not suggestions; they are orders. I would also suggest raising the bar to a higher standard for certification. The training program has been dumbed down; so that more of the off the street new hires can check out. I can understand that idea; as I was an off the street hire a long time ago; but then; it was perform or be gone. That has been replaced with a 'We're going to get you checked out; no matter what' attitude that is reducing safety.