Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)

I accept that the only approach to an issue is not always a taxation matter. There are other approaches to be taken. Of course, we are discussing the Finance Bill, which is dealing with taxation matters, so that is why I am looking at this from a tax angle. I do think it is a sound principle to say that activities that cause great harm to some people certainly should be more liable for taxation, and higher levels of taxation, than activities that are in society's interest and that we are trying to encourage and so forth. I accept some people bet. It is recreational and it does not harm them. However, it causes great harm to others.

There is considerable evidence from people who have worked in the industry, and from people with gambling addiction issues, of very bad practice in the industry and that it has not behaved responsibly.

There is a role for regulation there. When this level of harm is caused, with good lives, good jobs and good family relationships coming into contact with this industry and it all being destroyed, there is a case for much stronger levels of taxation. What is the Minister's view on the betting levy being much lower than in other European countries? Given that we are out of sync, does the Minister not think there is a strong case for change?