Commissioner commits to open market for online gaming

15-05-2008, Malta: The Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, Charlie McCreevy held meetings with the Members of the Lotteries and Gaming Authority during which the Chairman and Chief Executive gave a brief overview of the robust and comprehensive setup, functions and measures to regulate gaming operations originating from Malta.

The focus of the discussions was on remote gaming regulation, which included a detailed and live account of the internet-based monitoring systems developed and operated by the authority.

During a meeting with senior officials from licensed companies in Malta the Commissioner was urged to keep the pressure on Member States and refer those which are obstinately in violation of the Treaty and to the European Courts of Justice. The Commissioner declared that he intended pursuing the infringement proceedings, fully aware however, that such decisions are taken not only by himself but by the whole College of 27 Commissioners. Mr. McCreevy stated that in principle if a gaming service provider already holds a license from a Member State such as Malta then he can offer his services freely in other Member States without discriminate restrictions.

Mr. McCreevy also confirmed that there will not be a specific directive to cover gambling services in the internal market as he was sure that such an instrument will enact more restrictions than freedoms.

On his part Mario Galea, Chief Executive of the Authority highlighted that Malta, in principle, does not to interfere with gaming policies of other Member States but frequently questions the regulatory measures in place or being adopted by some Member States which must be transparent, objective, proportionate and non-discriminatory.