Kerry lotto sceptic has faith restored in system after receiving very own lottery ball

Mr Dineen wrote to the National Lottery, asking if they would break open some of these balls to quash his theories surrounding the presence of a computer microchip or magnet within them.

A Kerry lotto sceptic had his faith in the system restored after being given a National Lottery ball to inspect.

Tralee native Seán Dineen had concerns over the legitimacy of the lotto system, having unfounded suspicions over the structural integrity of the lotto balls.

Mr Dineen wrote to the National Lottery, asking if they would break open some of these balls to quash his theories surrounding the presence of a computer microchip or magnet within them.

His concerns were exacerbated by the ongoing roll-over of the Lotto jackpot back in 2021, where the lotto prize money went unclaimed for over six months. 

The jackpot ended up being capped at €19m and was won in January 2022 by a punter in Mayo.

Picture: Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .

However, his worries were put to bed once he received his very own official National Lottery ball in the post last week.

“I’ll leave it as it is, but I did look at it. I won't break it open. I’ll take their word for it,” Mr Dineen added.

“Look, its only one lottery ball, I can't get anymore of them, it's a once off. They don't send out too many to people, I don't think. It isn't something you get every day,” he said.

Mr Dineen was gifted an official National Lottery ball to inspect.

This isn't the first time Mr Dineen has had involvement with the National Lottery, however.

Back in 2022, the Kerry native was invited to National Lottery HQ as an "independent observer" after expressing his interest into the protocol involved to ensure fairness in the draws.

"From the very start, the balls are brought in in a sealed case and weighed. 

"They're handled with gloves. There's a rehearsal done with the ball several times. 

"So the whole thing takes about three hours," he said.

After observing the rigorous routine and getting the ball, Mr Dineen feels "it is all above board" saying "they went as far as they could" to address his concerns.

He is now determined to find a spot in his home to give the ball pride of place, adding that he will be entering the lotto and using the number of the ball, 23, when he does.

“It might be my lucky number at last,” he said.