The then Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation (Michael McGrath) commissioned an external, independent review of how National Lottery funding is distributed and used. The core aim of this review was to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the National Lottery as a source of funding for good causes by assessing the current distribution model against international best practice. The Indecon Report proposes a viable reform framework to help secure the National Lottery’s role in supporting good causes into the future.
In line with recommendations put forth within the review, the Department intends to continue the implementation of the recommendations on a gradual and phased basis in 2026.
Already, this Department has previously published its 2023 Good Causes Report, with the 2024 publication being currently finalised and available in the near future. Work on the 2025 report will commence shortly. The 2023 report is available on the Government website (www.gov.ie/en/department-of-public-expenditure-infrastructure-public-service-reform-and-digitalisation/publications/national-lottery-good-causes-funding-2023/).
Work in 2026 will focus on ensuring that Public Service Bodies and other beneficiaries consistently acknowledge the funding received, make prominent use of appropriate branding, and clearly communicate and detail facilities and services that are made possible due to good causes funding. The next step thereafter will be for the Department to consider further areas of reform, including the potential introduction of an open fund.
