Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 1:

In page 5, between lines 18 and 19, to insert the following:

“ ‘Private Members Club’ means a voluntary and unincorporated association of persons over the age of eighteen years, not being a public body, formed for the purpose of gaming in premises to which the public does not access as of right, the affairs and management of which is governed by a committee in accordance with rules established by the membership body;”.

The amendment is partially exploratory and I am keen to ascertain the view of the Minister of State on it. I was contacted by the organisation representing private members' clubs. The clubs believe that it is not the intention of the Minister of State for this legislation to apply to them. However, they are concerned that, as they stand, the definitions will mean that gaming without a valid permit or licence will be a criminal offence. They fear that their premises will be considered places where criminal offences are committed. However, it is not possible for them to apply for either the gaming licence or permit. Their concern is that this will eliminate them. There is a view that they need a form of bespoke regulation and licensing to manage that particular sector. My understanding is that the Minister of State does not intend the legislation to apply to them but they are concerned and believe that there is need for legal clarity on whether it will apply to them.