Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Unfortunately, there has been no movement on this matter in the past three years. I understand that the Financial Action Task Force, FATF, is undertaking an evaluation of Ireland. Criticism is expected for our lack of appropriate legislation to prevent money laundering through the gambling industry.

There is no fundamental protection of the consumer and even basic responsible practices are being ignored by many operators. Companies will stop people if they are winning too much, but we do not see the same being done if customers are losing significantly. Best practice entails self-exclusion facilities, gambler ID cards that must be used when betting and enforced time-outs. There must be a legal distinction between betting and gaming. All forms of gambling should have appropriate licences and there should be a prohibition on free alcohol in private members' clubs. Advertising must be examined, as it glamorises gambling. The industry should contribute to a social responsibility tax that would go towards research, treatment and awareness campaigns. There is almost no access to treatment in this country. Many private insurers will not cover gambling addiction and there is no public funding. The legislation exists, but it needs movement.

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