David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The people have a vested interest in the lotto, 62% to 63% of people regularly engage in the lotto that is the reason I believe it should remain in Ireland. We are fifth per capita in terms of lottery sales in Europe. We are only eight in terms of the distribution to good causes. Instead of trying to sell off the lottery, perhaps we could increase the percentage that goes to good causes.

I read the Bill and a Minister can become the regulator. With due deference to those present, I was not impressed by the distribution of funds recently decided by Ministers, which appeared to be far too blatantly partisan and for electoral purposes. I think that was wrong and I deplore it. I said it when it happened during the Fianna Fáil government and I say it again with Fine Gael in Government. It is not Government's money, it is never Fine Gael's or Labour's turn to do this, that or the other, it is always the welfare of the people that is at stake and it is always the people's money. We should be accountable in this House for that money and I salute Senator O'Donnell for holding the Government to account on this very important matter.