Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It works both ways. The Minister also cannot give an assurance. He is putting it out that he is against this particular concept, which is an innovative one, based on no evidence. Yet, Senator O'Donnell has put forward evidence that when it was used for the Olympics in the UK, it worked.

Several references were made to online and interactive gambling. I understand the online gaming industry is to be regulated and that it will be taxed. That is another possible source of income. A very significant amount of money is generated from online betting and other forms of gambling. Perhaps the Government would consider increasing the proposed 15% tax, which appears to be the European norm, to 20% for a period, which money could be used towards financing construction of the new children's hospital. I am disappointed the Minister believes this would not work.

In Switzerland, the semi-postal is used to fund good causes. It is called "pro patria". While letter writing is a declining concept, there is still much usage of stamps in the business area.