Dermot Ahern, the Irish Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, published the Report of the Irish Casino Committee, Regulating Gaming in Ireland, in advance of the summer recess. He aims to set up an informal cross-party committee this Autumn to examine all aspects of gaming in Ireland.
"This is good news for the industry as a whole, which has been seeking regulation for many years," said Martin Dempsey, Secretary of the Irish Gaming & Amusement Association.
"It seems that each sector will have the opportunity to present its proposals to the cross-party committee, and hopefully this will be followed by the establishment of a Regulatory Authority in a reasonable timeframe," he continued.
The report makes some 32 recommendations that have significant public policy implications regarding the future architecture of many aspects of gaming and betting in Ireland. "I am very anxious that we get things right in relation to our gaming and betting codes," the Minister said.
"In particular, I want to ensure that betting and gaming activities are carried out within a responsible framework that recognises the reality of these activities, but which ensures they are properly managed, particularly as regards problem gamblers."
The Minister said that because of technological advances associated with the online betting and gaming environments, the changing nature of gaming, the proliferation of private members' clubs offering a casino-style experience the issues were complex and require further detailed analysis before Government is asked to make a formal decision on introducing any significant changes to the regulatory regime in the gaming and betting area.
Will the plans for Russia's 'remote' gaming areas go ahead as the State Duma has described?
- 17 - 20 November, 2008
Global Gaming Expo - USA - 27 - 29 January, 2009
International Casino Exhibition 2009 - UK
