Shane Cassells (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Notwithstanding that and my passion for the issue, having worked closely with the Minister of State, Deputy James Browne, I believe that the regulatory framework for tackling the issue is contained in the Gambling Regulation Bill from the Minister of State and the Department of Justice. Senator Malcolm Byrne and I fought to have that reflected in this Bill, by asking that the Minister, her Department and the online safety commissioner reflect Government policy. Ultimately, there will be two commissioners. We do not want one crossing over the other. We want them to work hand in hand. Please God, the office of the gambling commissioner will be established by the end of this year. We hope that the online commissioner, using the statutory powers available to him or her, will work hand in hand with the gambling commissioner. That is what we should be doing rather than confusing the issue. Notwithstanding that I agree with what Senator Higgins has said, that is the proper manner in which to approach the matter.