Ivor Callely
Ceist:63 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered nominating a maximum pay-out of the weekly national lottery jackpot; if he has received submissions on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - National Lottery.
There are no proposals before Government to nominate a maximum payout or "cap" national lottery prizes. The Government is 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, thus helping to ensure its ongoing success.
To put a cap or ceiling on the size of Lotto jackpots would 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 change the prize structure of the Lotto.