Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 29:

In page 30, after line 40, to insert the following:

"Gambling

19.The Minister shall, by way of follow-up to the report published in 2015 by the Department of Social Protection and entitled Playing Social Roulette: The Impact of Gambling on Individuals and Society in Ireland prepare a report under this section on the potential for increased taxation of gambling operations, including as a Government response to the incidence of problem gambling.".

The amendment is self explanatory so I will not delay unduly other than to make two short points. The report to which Deputy Burton refers in the amendment gives a very clear indication of the severe impact of gambling on individuals and society. We often use taxation as a measure to deter such behaviour, for example, in relation to cigarettes, sugary drinks and alcohol. I urge the Minister to consider the study outlined in the amendment in order that we can effectively tax gambling. It would also bring in very useful revenue which would assist public expenditure in other areas.

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