Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State and note that 15 of the 18 amendments have been proposed by the Minister. Consequently, I am glad he is listening to opinion on this legislation. Senator Craughwell has raised very important points, which also were mentioned by Senators Michael D'Arcy and Cummins. This is an appalling addiction and whereas cigarettes and alcohol take a long time, this can destroy a family immediately. I thank Members opposite for the points they have made but between now and Report Stage, would it be possible to provide for a rule that one cannot spend more than a certain percentage of one's income on a bet? The purpose of this would be to try to slow down the process by which people destroy their families, their children and so on.

This is the worst addiction. I receive documents about the betting exchanges and so on mentioned by Senator Keane to the effect that this will create thousand jobs. It could destroy just as many jobs if it develops gambling addictions that wipe out families. While Senator Craughwell's formulations in his amendment are very good, I seek a formulation to the effect that when these businesses are legalised and brought within the scope of the legislation there should be a warning that one should not spend more than 2% or 3% of one's income because, most likely, one will be fleeced The warning should state that the gambler must support the bookie and his family, as well as the computer system and so on and that they are not charitable organisations. A huge mistake was made here in Ireland when banking got out of control and that should teach us to be much more careful with money and finances. In this context, dealing with gambling is a good place to start.