5 June 2002

NIGEL DODDS CLARIFIES LAW ON CASINOS

The operation of casinos in Northern Ireland is not permitted under established gambling law, the Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds, MP MLA, said today.

The Minister was speaking following a number of media reports about plans to open casinos in Markethill and elsewhere in the Province. He continued: "I wish to make it clear that the Northern Ireland gambling law does not allow the operation of casinos here. This has always been the case and I have no plans to change the legal position.

"I hope this reassures those in local communities such as Markethill who have been concerned over reports about the possibility of a casino being established in their areas."

NOTE TO EDITORS:

The Northern Ireland law on gaming is contained in the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (NI) Order 1985. The 1985 Order does not permit facilities for high stakes gaming such as are provided by commercial gaming clubs (casinos) in Great Britain.

---

Click here to print this press release.