asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the fact that British bookmakers are acquiring Irish offices and continuing business without a transfer of licence through the courts; and if he intends introducing amending legislation to control this situation.
Written Answers. - Bookmakers' Licences.
83.
Under the Betting Act, 1931, as amended, the general control and supervision of betting is effectively vested in the Minister for Finance and the Revenue Commissioners. The Garda Síochána have functions in relation to the personal fitness of persons within the State applying for licences and to the suitability of premises; appeals can be made to the courts against refusals. I have no role in either case. My role is confined to the consideration of applications for certificates of fitness by persons resident outside the State under section 5 of the Act. The issue of licences is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners.
While I am aware of newspaper reports in relation to British bookmakers becoming involved in bookmaking here, I have received no application under section 5 from persons referred to in the reports.
It would not fall to me to conclude whether amending legislation in relation to the Act generally is necessary or desirable. As far as my responsibilities under the Act are concerned, I have no proposals in that regard.