Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 420: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the regulation of casinos; if his announcement that the casinos would be banned still represents Government policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29844/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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On 14th August 2006, I announced that the Government had agreed to my proposals for the establishment of a Committee (the Casino Regulation Committee) to report on the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations in the State. The Casino Regulation Committee is due to report to the Government by the end of October, 2006 on: the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations in the State; the form of regulation, the functions and powers of any regulatory body, the licensing system, codes of practice, investigation of complaints, entry and inspection, appeals against decisions, the nature and type of offences, internet gambling etc.; the role of local authorities; and the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force.

The Committee is comprised of representatives from the Department of Finance, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, the Revenue Commissioners, the Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Mr Michael McGrath, a barrister with experience in the licensing area is chairman of this Committee. On the 18th August 2006 and on the 25th August 2006, the Committee advertised in the national newspapers inviting submissions from interested parties, groups or individuals in relation to the regulation of casinos. Submissions to the Casino Regulation Committee were to be made in writing to the Secretary of the Committee no later than Friday, 15th September 2006. These submissions will be evaluated by the Committee in the course of their deliberations.