Sharp exchanges erupted in the Seanad tonight as the Gambling Regulation Bill came under scrutiny, pitting Minister James Browne against former minister Michael McDowell.
McDowell criticized the bill for allowing gambling companies to use inducements to draw people into gambling, calling it “crazy” and “shameful.” In response, Minister Browne defended the legislation, stating that it bans inducements to individuals while still permitting general promotion by gambling companies.
Independent Senator Lynn Ruane warned of the harm caused by the gambling industry, while Labour Senator Mark Wall highlighted the 130,000 people in Ireland suffering from gambling addiction. Both argued for stricter regulations, with Wall advocating for a ban on both inducements and promotions.
The debate on the Gambling Regulation Bill was abruptly ended with a vote in favor of guillotining the Committee stage. The bill will return to the Seanad before heading to the Dáil for final consideration.