Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on whether shopkeepers and agents for the National Lottery will be adequately remunerated for their services under his proposals relating to the sale of the National Lottery licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2808/13]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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As the Deputy is aware, the Minister announced in April 2012 that there will be a competition for the next National Lottery licence. It is envisaged that the competition will take place later this year. It is the Minister's intention to safeguard the rates of commission paid to retailers under the terms of the next licence.

I acknowledge the concerns of retailers and the importance to them of income from National Lottery sales, particularly in the current economic climate. I am also aware of the central role which retailers have played in the great success of the National Lottery since its inception. It is envisaged that retailers will continue to be central to the operation of the National Lottery over the 20 year term of the next licence. I am confident that there will be strong growth in National Lottery sales under the next licence with an alignment of interests between the next licence holder, retailers and the State, reaping benefits for all concerned.