Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Rabbitte because if I correctly interpret her contribution it is one of forbearance towards the Government in respect of the gambling issue. I accept that with the grace with which it was offered. I acknowledge her contribution towards that and her interest in it. I am very keen that we can progress matters here. I assure her that every effort is being made in my Department, in particular under the stewardship of the Minister of State, Deputy Stanton, in order that we can meet specific targets. I understand Deputy Rabbitte's frustration and that of a number of Deputies who have been consistent in their interest in this issue and in their cause that matters would be updated. I accept everything that has been said but I would ask that at this point my bona fides would be accepted.

On the matter of the gaming and lotteries (amendment) Bill, work is ongoing between my officials and the Office of the Attorney General. It is envisaged that the Bill will be ready for publication late this year or very early next year. It has been included on the priority list for publication for autumn 2018. We have seven weeks left and we will keep in communication with the Deputy but I would be very disappointed if we do not have the Bill ready for publication within the timeframe envisaged. I will not go into detail but I will respond to some of the questions asked. The Bill will standardise at 18 the age limit for gambling and gaming. The age limit for the tote will now be set at 18. There will be a streamlining of applications for permits and licences. We hope to be in a position to move on to the publication of the Bill very shortly.

In response to Deputy Ó Snodaigh's question, it seems that bookmakers are already in compliance with the measures I am introducing here in respect of the money laundering directive. The amendments are similar to those which already exist in respect of bookmakers. Deputy Rabbitte asked why we are singling out private members' clubs and the reason for that is it is a requirement of the EU directive. It is an interim measure pending fuller regulation.

I acknowledge the support and work of Deputy Rabbitte and others in the House on the gambling regulation Bill. It has been helpful and it has not gone unnoticed by the Government. In January the Government approved the drafting of the general scheme to update the 2013 general scheme. The working group is chaired by the Minister of State, Deputy Stanton, and it is the group's intention that it would report directly to the Government prior to Christmas. Given the complexity of the gambling regulation Bill, which Deputy Rabbitte knows as well as anyone, it will take up to 12 months to draft the Bill. We will continue to work closely with the Office of the Attorney General. I would be very happy to keep Deputy Rabbitte and any other Deputies who are specialists in the area fully informed. I thank them for their work and interest in this issue.

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