Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
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27. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the Gaming and Lotteries (Amendment) Act 2019 has been commenced; if not, when it will be commenced; the plans for enforcement of the provisions contained in the Act; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42509/20]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the Gaming and Lotteries (Amendment) Act 2019 was commenced on 1 December 2020, with all sections coming into effect.

The necessary arrangements are now in place to support the commencement of the Act including the relevant application forms for gaming permits and lottery permits from An Garda Síochána and revised rules of the District Court for lottery licences.

Permits and licences already issued under the provisions of the 1956 Act will remain in force until their next renewal date. If that date is after 1 December 2020, the new provisions will apply.

The 2019 Act is an interim reform measure pending the comprehensive reform of gambling. It modernises the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 and will help the better promotion of local gaming and lottery activity held primarily for charitable and philanthropic purposes, and which are an important source of funding to sporting clubs and community organisations across the country.

Enforcement of the provisions of the Act is a matter for An Garda Síochána and for the Revenue Commissioners. The sanctions for offences have been strengthened to ensure greater compliance by those persons who hold gaming and lottery permits and licences.