Gambling Bill 'could cripple many small Tipperary community organisations and sports clubs'

Tipperary Sinn Fein TD Martin Browne has spoken on a provision in the Gambling Regulation Bill that could have a severe and negative impact on the ability of groups, sports clubs and organisations who are doing proactive work within the community to raise much needed funds.

Deputy Browne made the point as amendments to the Bill were discussed at Report Stage.

He said: “Over the years, I have been involved in fundraising draws for many community organisations and groups.  

“Those draws are important in the ability of these organisations to raise much needed funds for the important community work they do. Many of us have been contacted by charities and sporting organisations ahead of the scheduled report stage of the bill who are very concerned about the implications of the bill for their work in fundraising.

“I fully support the regulation of gambling - and I have spoken strongly about it in the past - yet the government must rethink the specific blunt measures contained within the Gambling Regulation Bill which could cripple many small community organisations and sports clubs, with no evidence related to gambling harm provided to justify doing so.  I called for amendments to address this aspect of the Bill.

“Sinn Féin moved a number of amendments in response, including one which would exempt charities and sports clubs from the provisions of the Bill, provided that the funds from any activity are for their benefit alone.

“This bill must deliver for ordinary people, voluntary organisations and those in recovery, whilst preserving jobs and protecting sources of fundraising. We have persisted in raising these amendments at committee stage and now report stage.”