Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 February 2010
299 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding fixed odds betting terminals; the impact of these machines in other countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7708/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy should be aware, from the many statements I have made in this House on the matter, of my opposition to Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs). I can assure the Deputy that I have no plans to change the law in this area as it currently stands.
In the current regulatory environment, I am advised that FOBTs, if they were introduced in bookmakers' premises, would be illegal as they would be classified as gaming machines. The Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 as amended prohibits gaming except in limited circumstances, for example in a licensed amusement arcade; at a circus or travelling show; or at a carnival — and then subject to limitations. Furthermore, the Betting Act 1931, which falls to the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Finance severely restricts what business — other than the business of bookmaking — that can take place in a licensed betting office.
As the Deputy may be aware, the major review of gambling under way in my Department is aimed at developing a new and comprehensive legal and organisational framework governing the gambling architecture in the State. Player protection will be an important consideration in developing any new regulatory environment for gambling. The initial consultation phase of the review process is now completed and my Department is now finalising an examination of the submissions received. Based on that examination and taking account of the Report of the Casino Committee, Regulating Gaming in Ireland, I hope to be in a position to seek Government approval of policy proposals for a new gambling architecture in the State.
Technological innovations, including fixed odds betting terminals are to be found in many jurisdictions. I understand, for example, that there are some 25,000 FOBTs installed in betting offices in the United Kingdom, where they are classed as B2 gaming machines, with a maximum stake of Stg £100, and a maximum prize of Stg £500. The most recent British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2007 commissioned by the UK Gambling Commission found that while those gambling on FOBTs represented only 3% of overall gambling, the prevalence of problem gambling in those who used FOBTs was 11.2%. The message that I take from this finding, is to proceed with caution in relation to FOBTs.
Technological advances over recent years have changed the face of the world in which we live and consequently the various forms of gambling cannot be immune to such technological advances. However, foremost in my mind is the protection of young people and the vulnerable.
