Athlone Town Councillor Aengus O'Rourke welcomes the initiative announced by Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Dermot Ahern, to undertake a major review of the legislation surrounding the gambling industry in Ireland.
Cllr O'Rourke said, "I had concerns that the group may be looking to curtail the fund-raising activities of so many of the worthy sporting, charity, and community organisations in Athlone that run lotteries, draws, race events, etc. However, having been in touch with the Department I understand that the objective of this review is to provide the Government with options for a new and comprehensive legal and organisational framework governing the 'new' gambling industry that has emerged in recent years due to advances in technology, enabling easier access to gambling."
Cllr O'Rourke continued, "The essential aim of the review is put in place a modern, responsive code that recognises the fact that some people gamble and enjoy it. But, equally, any gambling code must recognise that there are inherent dangers involved in gambling that need to be addressed and thoroughly considered."
Cllr O'Rourke received confirmation from the review committee, which is part of The Casino Gaming Control section of Minister Ahern’s department, that "This review will not impact in any way on the many Athlone charities, sports, and community-based organisations that rely on certain forms of gambling as a critical source of income. I am assured that a sense of balance and proportion will be maintained by the review board. In a nutshell, their approach seems reasonable, a 'free-for-all' could not be advocated nor could an absolute prohibition”.
