The long overdue report from a government-appointed commission on gambling regulation has finally been published. Former Minister for Justice Michael McDowell ordered the report in 2006 following a perceived U-turn from his previous statement that casinos would be banned in Ireland. The commission, which delivered its report to the government over one year ago, examined the issue of regulating the casino industry and researched best practice in other jurisdictions in order to draw up guidelines.

A new Minister of Justice, Brian Lenihan, examined the possibility of introducing gambling legislation and, following a government reshuffle, the still controversial issue has now fallen to the present Minister Dermot Ahern. It has been confirmed that an informal cross-party committee will be convened to review the report before any further developments are considered.

Yesterday it was revealed that the report recommends the licensing of casinos and gaming, and the establishment of an independent regulator. It also suggests the government should establish an interim authority to oversee the casinos now operating as private members’ clubs. The report states that FOBTs should not be allowed at bookmakers even though the Irish Bookmakers’ Association has been lobbying for these gaming machines.

The report ‘Regulating Gaming in Ireland’ makes 22 recommendations, including that tax levied on casino and arcade turnover should be more than the 1% presently levied on bookmakers. Gaming taxation will be an issue for the Minister of Finance to resolve in due course. The cross-party committee will consult the public and consider the set-up of a regulatory regime.

Casino regulation will involve the government putting safeguards in place to protect children and the vulnerable. Local authorities will retain their powers relating to the location of casinos and arcades in their areas. The report made a further recommendation that charities and horse racing bodies be allowed to apply for casino licences. Prospective casino owners will likely undergo in-depth criminal and financial background checks. (E-07.11.08)

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