Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome all the groups and I thank them for their submissions. Do all three groups support a new comprehensive framework for gambling in this country? Is that principle agreed by all three groups, with the exception of changes to heads 72, 73 and 77?

With regard to the addiction issue, what is their response to people's concern about this aspect of their industry? This issue is raised by many citizens and parents, in particular. How many people are directly affected by this gambling addiction? Is it 1% or 5%?

Reference was made to gambling being limited to over 18s. However, some of these addiction issues can go underground and lead people to worse places.

On the safety and security issue there is potential for money laundering through certain aspects of the industry. I believe Mr. Hickson mentioned that members of his association had a very good relationship with the Garda and the security services. Is that relationship really strong? Many people have concerns that money can disappear into aspects of the gambling industry.

I have a question on virtual racing. Many people have concerns about it being beamed in from the UK without proper regulation in this country.