Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 2

Written Answers. - National Lottery.

Jack Wall

Question:

61 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the plans, if any, he has to develop the operation of the national lottery; if so, if he has discussed those plans with the members of the board of the national lottery company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15711/97]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Under the National Lottery Act, 1986, the detailed operation of the national lottery is the responsibility of the licensee, currently An Post National Lottery Company.

The legislation also provides that the approval of the Minister for Finance is required for games offered by the company and for the company's annual budget. In this situation, the company is in contact with my Department on a continuing basis to discuss a variety of issues related to the company.

As the Deputy is aware, the current licence to operate the national lottery will expire in the year 2000, and in this context I intend to engage in a wide-ranging review of all options in relation to the development of the lottery.