Darragh O'Brien (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 291: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when he anticipates the publication of the draft heads of the Bill for the regulation of the gaming sector, which was due to be published in the first quarter of 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34842/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy will be aware from previous replies that I initiated a major review of gambling with the objective of providing me, in the first instance, and then the Government, with options for a new policy to inform our gambling architecture. It is a matter of record that Governments of different hues have shied away from attempting any significant reform of our gambling laws since our existing gaming and lotteries legislation was enacted over 50 years ago. Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, I am resolved to make our gambling laws relevant to the 21st century. In light of this commitment, I make no apology for taking the time to make sure this is done effectively. Therefore, the question of publishing legislation does not arise at this time. We must first finish settling policy in relation to a new gambling architecture.

Any such new policy aimed at modernising our gambling code must take account of the challenges and threats, but also opportunities, presented by new technologies, particularly the internet. In addition, policy must also be premised 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 and

that gambling is kept free of crime.

Following the settling of that policy, arrangements will be made in the normal course to address the necessary legislative change. As the first comprehensive review of our gambling law, effectively since the enactment of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 draws to a close, it is reasonable to expect that any new legislation that may arise, will be both complex and comprehensive.