Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I understand. I will pass on from the matter, but I warn all of us, myself included, against making blasé comments that could be seen to be irresponsible and symptomatic of a too casual attitude to gambling in Ireland.

I commend the motion to the Seanad. I pay tribute also to the people who are tackling the problem, even as big businesses profit, sometimes in a cynical way, as we heard from Senator Warfield when he referred to non-existent industry attempts to promote responsibility in this area. It is not so much it is what it is - to use their own words - but it is not what it is not. I had the good fortune to visit Tiglin recently to see the wonderful work being done by Aubrey McCarthy, staff and former clients. There is real hope for people with aaddictions, including gambling. I also acknowledge the great work being done by Sister Consilio and Cuan Mhuire. They are the real heroes. The State should take the lead from their courage, initiative and persistence to come up with solutions to the problem; solutions that are long overdue.