248. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to promote divestment in the gambling industry by third-level institutions; and, in particular, his views on the practice of organisations in the sector sponsoring academic programmes and sports events.

Simon Harris, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science: Gambling behaviours of young people are of concern, particularly regarding the negative impacts that are associated with gambling addiction. It is important to note that supports are available to students who are struggling with gambling and gambling addiction, for example spunout.ie.

My Department is not aware of any sports events in Higher Education Institutions being sponsored by the gambling industry. The gambling bill proposed by my colleague Minister Browne is to prohibit sponsorship of an event or any part of one where the majority of persons are children, or of an organisation, club or team in which children are members.