Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. I take his point that the protection of minors is implicit in the Bill. However, I would like it to be more explicit. Gambling is a serious problem. We know from the "Prime Time" exposé, for example, that it is all too easy for a 16-year old or 17-year old to place a bet in a bookmaker's shop. The controls do not seem to be adequate. Given the proficiency of young people in the online world it is all too easy for someone to open an account, engage in gambling and build up what is in many cases a bad habit for life.

I will not press the amendment but I wish to highlight the issue. I hope the provisions in the Bill will be interpreted to include underage gambling. If a bookie is not dealing with the issue adequately and is found to have not implemented the law properly, his or her licence should be revoked. It is important that we send out a very strong signal that under age gambling is not acceptable and will be dealt with.

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