Support services for people with gambling problems may be due for a boost.

Talks are taking place between the Gambling Supervision Commission, which regulates licence-holders in the Isle Of Man, and the Department of Health and Social Care.

Part of the commission’s role is to ensure licence-holders meet their social responsibilities.

Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly MHK told Tynwald this week: ’The particular role of the DHSC is to ensure there are appropriate, evidence-based pathways for prevention and early intervention as well as suitable services in place for those with such an addiction.’

He added: ’In order to provide such services the DHSC, through the mental health services, is developing a needs assessment framework managed by the Public Health Division and resourced by the mental health service.

’Once the results of this needs assessment have been obtained, there will be a service redesign and a business case submitted for funding to the DHSC. If this is successful, a decision will be made as to whether the provision will be delivered by DHSC or contracted out.’

Mr Skelly was responding to a question tabled by David Ashford (Douglas North), who wanted an update on the discussions.

The minister said: ’The GSC is fully appraised of these important developments.

’The commission and my department meet fortnightly so that my officers and I are aware of this significant social problem and what is being done to tackle it.’