Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 96: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the legislation governing the use of gaming machines; the steps his Department will take to ensure that the law is not being broken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35707/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Gaming and Lotteries Acts 1956 to 1986 is the legislation governing the use of gaming machines. All gaming, except that which is specifically provided for under the terms of the Act, is prohibited. The Act sets out the definition of a gaming instrument, the stake and prize limits for gaming machines and the premises on which these type of machines are permitted.

An extensive review of the Gaming and Lotteries Acts 1956 to 1986 was carried out in 2000 by an interdepartmental group which made recommendations for legislative amendments in this area. Draft legislation is being prepared in my Department to update key elements of the provisions relating to gaming. These new provisions will focus in particular on the area of gaming stake and prize money limits. The Garda Síochána enforces the provisions of the gaming and lotteries legislation on a continual basis.