Seanad to Consider Ban on Bookmakers Accepting Bets on National Lottery

DUBLIN, Ireland (October 8, 2024) –The issue of banning bookmakers from accepting bets on the National Lottery is being reconsidered in the Seanad today (October 8), with strong support from various stakeholders due to its negative impacts on National Lottery funding. Many EU countries have already implemented similar bans, citing concerns about the reduction in funds for Good Causes and the loss of commission income for retail agents. According to data from the National Lottery operator, this practice reduces Good Causes funding by 20% annually.

RGDATA’s Position:
In a letter to Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery, and Reform, RGDATA (the representative body for independent retailers) called for action to ban Lottery Betting. Tara Buckley, RGDATA’s Director General, highlighted how Ireland is lagging behind other EU countries that have prohibited this practice. She urged Donohoe to take this legislative opportunity to address the issue, noting that Minister James Browne of the Department of Justice cannot act without Donohoe’s agreement. Buckley underscored the potential benefits of a ban, including boosting National Lottery funding and supporting local retailers.

Committee Stage Debate:
On September 26, during the Seanad’s Committee Stage debate on the Gambling Regulation Bill, Senator Barry Ward introduced an amendment (No. 113) to clarify that gambling entities regulated by the bill could not offer bets on the National Lottery without authorization under Part 7 of the National Lottery Act 2013. This amendment aimed to effectively ban Lottery Betting unless entities were specifically licensed for it.

Minister James Browne acknowledged the amendment’s intent but indicated that the matter falls under Minister Donohoe’s jurisdiction. He agreed to consult with Donohoe on the issue, prompting Senator Ward to withdraw the amendment temporarily with plans to reintroduce it at the Report Stage.

The focus is now on whether Donohoe will move forward with a ban, which advocates like RGDATA believe will have significant positive effects for Good Causes, retailers, and the overall integrity of the National Lottery.

SOURCE: LI Contributor.