Sinn Féin MLA Sinéad Ennis has welcomed the decision by Department for Communities to consult the public on betting, gaming and lotteries legislation.

The party’s culture, arts and sports spokesperson said:

“The Department for Communities is hoping to launch a consultation on betting, gaming and lotteries legislation in mid-November.

“The consultation will run for approximately ten weeks.

“I would encourage members of the public, but in particular sports clubs and societies, to respond with their view.

“In my opinion the current legislation is not fit for purpose and its restrictive nature is a threat to lifeline of our clubs and societies who rely on revenue raising through lotteries and draws.

“If legislation is not reformed and clubs are limited in their ability to raise additional funds the responsibility for fund raising will fall back on families and parents who already pay membership fees and buy relevant equipment.

“Because of the outdated nature of the legalisation bad practice has become the norm, in order for clubs to be complaint there should be a review on the permitted stakes and prices.

“Hopefully this consultation process will lead to our betting, gaming and lotteries legislation being updated.”