Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 304: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13051/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that I have initiated a major review of gambling. The objective of the review is to put in place a modern, responsive code that recognises the fact that some people gamble and enjoy gambling. But, equally, any gambling code must acknowledge that there are inherent dangers involved in gambling that need to be addressed, not least in terms of problem gambling, protection of minors and the need to ensure gambling venues are crime-free. The Casino Gaming Control Section of my Department will be responsible for bringing forward proposals, including a draft Bill in due course, for a revised gambling code. The Casino Gaming Control Section will consult widely before bringing forward any proposals and will develop its proposals based on the three important considerations which are the hallmark of most well-regulated gambling codes. These are: — that young people and the vulnerable are protected, — that gambling should in all respects be fairly and openly conducted, — that gambling is kept free of crime.

In this context I have also decided that private clubs offering casino games to members will be subject to oversight by the Casino Gaming Control Section of my Department, pending the outcome of the review now underway. As a first step, private clubs engaged in casino-like activities will be obliged to comply with relevant anti-money laundering and terrorist financing legislation. The immediate necessary legislative changes, for these purposes, will be made in conjunction with legislation now being drafted to give effect to the Third Money Laundering Directive, and which forms part of the Government's published legislative programme. This limited recognition of casino-type gaming does not mean that large-scale casino developments will be permitted. Any further development of this area must await detailed consideration and rigorous examination by the Government of proposals for the further regulation of this sector that will arise from the overall review of gambling being undertaken by my Department.