Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 May 1996

Vol. 465 No. 3

Written Answers. - British Lottery Sales.

Seán Power

Question:

181 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Justice the approximate number of outlets in the Republic of Ireland selling British lottery tickets; the amount of money being spent on these tickets; the effect, if any, it is having on our own national lottery sales; if so, the action, if any, he intends to take in this respect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9653/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

The law in relation to the sale of lottery tickets (other than tickets for the national lottery) in this jurisdiction is contained in the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956.

I am not aware of the exact number of outlets in this jurisdiction selling British lottery tickets or of the amount of money being spent on these tickets.

However, I am aware that there are a considerable number of locations and a considerable amount of money involved and that the situation is of concern to the national lottery. I might add that matters relating to the national lottery come within the area of responsibility of the Minister for Finance.

While the 1956 legislation is drawn in very wide-ranging terms, obviously (because of its date) it was not drafted with the UK lottery in mind. The existing legislation is being examined in regard to its application to lotteries which have come into existence since the passage of the 1956 Act.