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

I thank the Deputy for tabling this question. I was pleased to announce recently that Indecon International Consultants have been commissioned to support the Department in the review of the effectiveness and transparency of how national lottery funding for good causes is distributed. The national lottery plays a vital role in generating funding for a wide range of clubs, charities and community groups throughout the country each year. Close to 30 cent of every €1 spent on national lottery games is transferred to the Exchequer to fund good causes projects. Approximately €6 billion has been raised since national lottery operations commenced in 1987, and over €254 million was transferred to the Exchequer last year for good causes.

It is timely that we should review the existing funding model now to ensure that it can continue to support good causes projects in an effective manner into the future. My Department will be engaging with a number of relevant Departments and other key stakeholders during this process, and the review will also examine international best practice in this area. I envisage that the review will conclude in the first half of next year and I intend to bring any new proposals arising to the Government as soon as possible afterwards.

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