Phil Hogan
Ceist:100 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if he proposes to introduce a ceiling in respect of prizes awarded by the national lottery; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - National Lottery Prize Money.
The Government are anxious to ensure the ongoing viability of the national lottery so as to safeguard this important source of funding for the many socially desirable programmes which are now assisted by the national lottery.
Occasional large jackpots are popular with players. They help to sustain public interest in the lotto and encourage additional players to participate. They thus help to ensure its on-going success.
To put a "cap" or ceiling on the size of lotto jackpots would, I feel, run the risk of undermining public interest in participation and could well jeopardise the long term success of the game. In the circumstances, I do not propose to issue a direction to An Post National Lottery Company to change the prize structure of the lotto.