asked the Minister for Justice if he will state the position in regard to the playing of pongo, and the use of slot machines.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Legality of Pongo and Slot Machines.
I am advised that the playing of pongo is contrary to the Gaming Acts. For some time, however, the police, acting on the instructions of my predecessor, have not taken proceedings against promoters for gaming of a minor nature where each stake does not exceed 6d. and where children are not allowed to participate. As a result of recent complaints that games of pongo, etc., were being operated, particularly in Dublin, on a wide scale, I gave instructions to the police that the toleration extended to minor games hitherto should cease. Later, however, having received representations on behalf of the Irish Showmen's Guild and the Irish Amusement Caterers' Association that the police notice to them of one week was short, that an immediate close down would cause unemployment and, furthermore, in consideration of guarantees received from the guild and the association not to continue to operate contrary to the Gaming Acts after 31st December, I directed the police to continue in their former attitude up to that date.
The operation of slot-machines for gaming purposes is a serious contravention of the law and it will not be tolerated.
Could the Minister give me an undertaking that, after 31st December, the clubs that are solely dependent on the proceeds of these games will get a guarantee that they can carry on the games if a certain percentage of the proceeds is given to charity or for the promotion of athletics?
You would never know what would happen in the meantime.