Strict new rules regarding casinos are on the cards after the Government revealed a Committee had been set up to look at bringing in new laws on gambling dens.
Despite being banned under the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956, poker clubs have been allowed to open for members only and operate in a virtual legal limbo.
But that looks set to end with the committee charged with examining possible avenues for regulation. Minister for Justice Michael McDowell, said there were major concerns over the unregulated nature of casino style clubs.
"The establishment of this Committee is a major step towards addressing this situation and I look forward to the report of the committee in the coming months," he said.
"I expect that the legislative proposals will bring about strict regulation over the establishment of and operation of casinos while ensuring that public and local interests are served."
The Casino Regulation Committee will report on the possible legislative basis for strict regulation of casino-style operations.
The tightening of rules on casinos is also seen as a key way of combating money laundering.
"The views of the Financial Action Task Force which has commented unfavourably on the current situation in Ireland as regards casino operations and money laundering are also of concern," Mr McDowell said.
"And I have ensured that those views will be taken into account in the compilation of the committee's report."
The Committee will report to the Government by the end of October the form of regulation and the functions and powers of any regulatory body. The licensing system, codes of practice, investigation of complaints, entry and inspection, appeals against decisions, the nature and type of offences and internet gambling will also be looked at.
The role of local authorities and the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force will be taken on board.