James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I certainly hear the Senator's concerns. I agree with her concerns about developments in technology, including algorithms.

Under section 32, there is an obligation on the authority to monitor and review the implementation of the Act, including the adequacy of the functions assigned to the authority and national and international developments in gambling and gambling activities and the regulation of such activities. The authority may also consider existing and emerging practices in gambling and gambling activities, whether such activities generally or a particular type of gambling or gambling activity, for the purposes of identifying issues of concern arising from such practices. The Bill goes on to say that, for the purposes of that provision, issues of concern may arise about practices that may be in accordance with the law or a code of practice applicable to such practices but where the law or code of practice as applied is giving rise, or may give rise, to an increase in compulsive or excessive gambling or is detrimental to the public interest.There are certain several fail-safe sections there for the authority to consider emerging practices. That will include technology and how technology is being used for gambling purposes. I am satisfied the authority has the necessary power to deal with such situations.