Ahern Begins Major Review Of Gambling

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Dermot Ahern T.D., has begun a major review of gambling whose objective is to provide the Government with options for a new and comprehensive legal and organisational framework governing the gambling architecture in the State taking account of significant technological changes of the past number of years. 

The Casino Gaming Control Section of the Department will be responsible for bringing forward proposals, including proposals for a draft Bill, for a revised gambling code.

The essential aim of the review being carried out by the Casino Gaming Control Section of the Department 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.

Together with the review of gambling, private clubs offering casino games to members will have to comply with all relevant anti-money laundering and terrorist financing legislation.

The immediate necessary legislative changes for this purpose will be made in conjunction with legislation being drafted to give effect to the Third Money Laundering Directive. It is expected that this legislation will be published shortly.

The Minister said that consultation was an essential part of the review and that the Casino Gaming Control Section will consult widely before bringing forward any proposals.

The consultation process will be "both extensive and inclusive" and will utilise a variety of formats. 

The Casino Gaming Control Section will, with the assistance of such consultation, develop its proposals based on "the three important considerations which are the hallmark of most well-regulated gambling codes, namely, 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.