Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

No, I have not said a Bill is not necessary. I am simply saying a decision must be made by Government for legislation to be brought forward with regard to these matters. What has been looked at, as the Deputy is aware, is the need to review the whole legislative framework currently governed by 1956 legislation which, I presume, does not take account of the many technological and other advances made in betting. For example, one issue that arose which will require legislation in the new year is to give legislative effect to a budgetary decision to try to capture funds for the Exchequer in respect of Internet betting and betting outside normal bookmakers' offices or turf accountant arrangements where there are on-course and off-course bookmaking arrangements at the moment.

The matter of political donations is at an advanced stage of preparation and I expect it to be brought for final approval and publication shortly.

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