asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware that there is a growing proliferation of gambling establishments in the centre of Dublin city whose basic plant appears to consist of rows of slot machines; and if he will take action to close down these establishements because of their effect on young people.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Gambling Establishments.
30.
Mr. O'Leary
The total number of licensed amusement halls in Dublin is 11, which is an increase of one in the past two years.
These halls are licensed under Part III of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956. That Part of the Act has effect in any area only where there is in force a resolution of the appropriate local authority, in this case Dublin Corporation, for its adoption in relation to that area. A resolution may relate to the whole of the administrative area of the local authority or to any part or parts thereof and it may be rescinded. Applications for licences in respect of individual premises are dealt with by the District Court. The court is obliged to have regard to certain factors when dealing with an application, among them being the number of existing licensed halls in the locality and the kind of gaming proposed to be carried on.
The Act itself sets limits to the stakes and prize-money and it prohibits the operation, in licensed amusement halls or elsewhere, of slot machines that pay winnings direct to the players. The Act empowers the court to attach conditions to licences restricting the kinds of gaming that may be promoted, etc. The Garda check to ensure that the provisions of the Act and any conditions attaching to the licences are observed and they have from time to time prosecuted licensees for offences under the Act.
The provisions of the law, which I have briefly outlined, give adequate power to the local authorities and the courts to control this kind of business.