Irish National Lottery Releases Unclaimed Funds to Help Combat COVID-19

The Irish National Lottery has released €16 million in unclaimed funds to help battle against COVID-19.

This will help the Government’s efforts now as the country battles to beat back the deadly virus. The money will go directly to the health sector which is in danger of becoming overwhelmed as the virus continues to spread.

“I am pleased that the €16million of historic expired prizes has become available to support investments in health at a time of unprecedented national crisis due to COVID-19,” Paschal Donohoe said.

“All of us at the National Lottery are delighted to see this €16million used to improve health in our communities. PLI (Premier Lotteries Ireland) has been pleased to work together with the Regulator to make these funds available at this time. Thanks to our players the National Lottery raised over €250m for thousands of Good Causes in 2019 and perhaps more than ever, plays a vital role in supporting clubs, charities and great causes across the country,” Andrew Algeo, CEO of National Lottery, said.

The money was held in the National Lottery Fund, which is managed and controlled by the National Lottery Regulator and will now be transferred by the Regulator to the Exchequer.