James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Amendments Nos. 170, 171 and 173 provide that when assessing whether a premises is suitable to provide gambling activities from, the authority shall consider any information provided under section 95(1)(a) as part of an application and must consult with the local authority where the premises are situated, must consult with the relevant fire safety authority, and must inspect the premises before making a determination for an in-person gambling licence.

Amendment 174 provides that in the case of Limerick City and County Council, the authority must consult with the director general of the council and for a reciprocal requirement to engage with the HSA.

Unfortunately, I cannot accept amendment No. 172 because what is proposed is too broad and would be impractical to operate. I am satisfied with the policy underpinning the section, particularly the requirement to consult with local authorities and consider the location of schools when considering applications. Furthermore, the Government’s amendment will strengthen the consultation provision and provide for co-operation between the authority and local authorities concerning the location of premises and whether gambling may take place in a particular area.

Amendments Nos. 175 and 176 provide that the authority shall make a determination to allow children or ATMs on premises having considered the information submitted to it under section 95 and that any determination may be subject to any conditions, including any additional measures, to protect children or conditions to restrict the number of ATMs or requiring them to be located away from areas where gaming takes place if the authority feels such measures are necessary.