Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I was discussing amendment No. 338 in that grouping, as it relates to the Schedule. It would lower the maximum relevant payments for games with a duration of less than 20 seconds. This is a more targeted approach than is offered in the Bill and seeks to distinguish high-speed gambling games and the particular risks they pose. It would also set a lower maximum relevant payment for those aged between 18 and 24. Younger people, particularly those aged between 18 and 24, are at a higher risk of developing gambling problems. Younger persons' decision-making ability has not yet matured, their brains are still developing and they are far more likely to take risks and act impulsively. The UK Government has recognised that this age group has the highest average problem gambling score of any group. It is irresponsible to ignore this in the regulation in the context of high-speed electronic gaming machines.

Amendment No. 127 seeks a periodic review of the maximum relevant payments for these games every three years having regard to any expert research available. Again, while responding to evidence the UK Government has introduced stake limits on slot games. Given the known addictive nature of these games, it seems highly appropriate that the authority would keep an eye on the threshold of these maximum payments, given the clear link between the types of games associated and excessive and compulsive gambling activity.