McDowell’s gamble fails to pay off

WHETHER he likes it or not, the surprise announcement by Justice Minister Michael McDowell of a regulatory commission to govern casinos is a political u-turn.

The other day, he was for closing them down. Obviously, that went down badly with Fianna Fáil following warnings from casino owners that hundreds of jobs would be lost.

Uncharacteristically, the normally combative minister reneged on his earlier bid, throwing in his hand without demur.

With 20 casino-style clubs already here, albeit illegally, it makes sense to regulate them. Ironically, Ireland is among two EU countries to ban such clubs.

Doubtless, with an election in the offing, Mr McDowell was reminded by his FF colleagues of the folly of legislating on the hoof — and of placing his bets before reading the cards.