Ivor Callely
Question:104 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice her views on casino enterprises; whether any casino houses, gaming houses or card rooms operate in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7982/96]
Written Answers. - Casino Enterprises.
The legislation which controls gaming in this jurisdiction is the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956. Gaming in Ireland is illegal, except to the extent that it is specifically permitted by law. Some forms of gaming are permitted, such as in duly licensed amusement halls and funfairs and also at travelling shows, carnivals, circuses, etc.
The Deputy will be aware that the Minister for Finance has established an interdepartmental committee to report to him in relation to the operation of a casino in this jurisdiction.
With regard to the enforcement of the law, I have been informed by the Garda authorities that 43 breaches of the Gaming and Lotteries Act were detected by the Garda Síochána nationwide in 1995. The Garda authorities also informed me that any alleged contravention of the Gaming and Lotteries Act will be fully investigated by the Garda and, in this light, I invite the Deputy or any person who is aware of a breach of the law in this regard to report the matter to the Garda Síochána for appropriate action.