Question
127. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if proposed changes to the Lottery Act 1956 would drive spending away from local voluntary groups; the way changes may affect key lottery income to local community organisations (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35144/16]
Answer
Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy David Stanton): The Deputy will be aware that the General Scheme of the Gambling Control Bill was published in July 2013 following approval by the Government and is currently being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. The proposed legislation is intended, upon its enactment, to repeal all extant gambling legislation, including the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956. The National Lottery will continue to be legislated for separately.
The General Scheme was published in 2013 and proposes,
inter alia, for the licensing of lotteries by the regulatory body to be established under the legislation. Departmental officials are currently reviewing the draft Scheme, taking account of intervening developments and technologies in the gaming sector.