Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support Senator Davitt's comments about online gambling and his call for a debate. The previous Leader of the House did a lot of work on this area. Everyone knows that online gambling is a big problem. Gambling is hard to detect and online gambling is even harder to detect. As we all know, gambling destroys families. Experts say that gambling is the worst addiction due to it being undetectable. A debate on the matter is welcome.

I note with interest and welcome the fact that the Central Bank will announce the outcome of its review on mortgage rules this afternoon. The existing restrictions set limits on how much home buyers can borrow in respect of their income and the size of deposits. I agree that we must do all in our power to prevent the irresponsible overheating of the housing market again. However, the lack of available houses and soaring rents in the past two years means many couples dream of owning a home has fallen between two stools. Senator Humphreys mentioned this issue this morning but I have touched on it too as these matters are connected. I suggest we discuss the matter with the Minister when he attends for a debate.