Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
794. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice the up-to-date position with the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022; when the Bill will progress through the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47394/23]
View answerThe Programme for Government includes a clear commitment to reform gambling legislation, with a focus on public safety and well-being from both an online and in-person perspective.
The Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 sets out the framework and legislative basis for the establishment of a new, independent statutory body – Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland – and for a robust regulatory and licensing regime to regulate gambling in-person and online including lotteries and other similar gambling activities permitted under the Bill and for the regulation of gambling advertising, websites and apps.
At its core, the Bill is a public health measure aimed at protecting our citizens from gambling harm, including younger people and those more vulnerable in our communities. The Bill was published and completed Second Stage in Dáil Éireann in December last year, completed Committee Stage on 11 July and my officials are currently preparing for Report Stage.
While the scheduling of Oireachtas business is a matter for the Houses of the Oireachtas, I am hopeful that the Bill will be enacted in the coming months.
