Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1332. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the powers the gambling regulator is expected to have; if their powers will be based on the UK model; and when advertising will start for the interim position. [39164/21]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Programme for Government gives a clear commitment to establish a gambling regulator focused on public safety and well-being, covering gambling online and in person, and the powers to regulate advertising, gambling websites and apps. The Justice Plan 2021 identifies the enactment of legislation to licence and regulate the gambling industry as a key objective.

When it is established, the regulator will have the necessary enforcement powers for licensing, and powers to take action where individuals or operators are failing to follow rules and regulations. Its key objectives will be: preventing gambling from being a source or support to crime; ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way for companies to make decisions in certainty; and, requiring safeguards including in relation to gambling advertising.

Operators offering activities in whole or in part online, will be subject to the licensing terms and conditions similar to other licensees, with any necessary additions.  The regulator, therefore, will cover online and in person gambling.  They will also have the powers to regulate advertising, gambling websites and apps. 

As outlined in the Justice Plan 2021, I expect to be in a position to publish the Scheme of the Bill in Quarter 3 2021. Further details on the functions and powers of the regulator will be outlined in the Scheme.

As also set out in the Justice Plan 2021, the position of a CEO designate is due to be advertised in Quarter 3 this year with a finalised appointment scheduled for Quarter 4.

An Inter-Departmental Working Group on Future Licensing and Regulation of Gambling reported in 2019 and a European Commission funded report on the structure of a gambling regulator was also produced in late 2019.  What is being put in place for the sector and customers is largely in line with what other countries have already implemented, including the UK model.