Gambling control legislation
Deputy McNamara asks about the gambling control Bill, while also raising a threatened Clare hospital rehabilitation service; the Chair rules the latter out of scope, and the Minister says the gambling Bill is being drafted without a publication date.
Most Members will be aware of the damage that gambling causes to society but fewer will be aware that no bet is legally enforceable. If I win a bet, I cannot enforce payment on it. The former Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, prepared the general scheme of a gambling control Bill in 2013. What is the position of that Bill and when will it be published?
In the context of the spring statement, an issue has arisen this morning that is causing considerable concern in County Clare, with news of a threat to the rehab unit in St. Joseph's hospital.
Comment on this
Ordinarily the Opposition would raise this issue on Leaders' Questions but given Fianna Fáil's dismal performance on health in County Clare during its term in government, that party is not in a position to raise. That is why I have to raise the issue.
Comment on this
I can only deal with the Deputy's question on the gambling control legislation, which is currently being drafted. I do not have specific date for its introduction.