oil pump gasket, yeah or nay

Six of one, half dozen of the other.
Personally, I've never pulled apart one that had a gasket, so I don't use them going back together. With a high pressure pump it might be a good idea... But I don't think you're wrong either way. Considering the current state of quality control on machining of replacement parts, it's probably not a bad idea.
How's that for a wishy-washy answer? :)
That gasket is so thin I don't think it would help with any manufacturing irregularities.