Galea returns to Malta online gambling regulator

Mario Galea is back in the regulatory saddle at the Lotteries and Gaming Authority in Malta.

The former chief exec, who retired due to ill health in 2008 after four years setting up and running the regulator, has been appointed chairman of the Authority by the Malta minister responsible for regulation, Dr. Edward Zammit Lewis.

Galea, who has been operating his own online gambling consultancy, said of his appointment:

“I am delighted to be returning to the LGA and look forward to working with the staff to keep Malta as a centre of excellence for gaming policy.”

The LGA has come under fire in recent years for its lack of player sensitivity and regulatory vigilance in a number of online poker scandals involving internet poker operators regulated by the Authority.

Its weak market communication capability and apparent inability to efficiently monitor requirements for segregated accounts for player funds have been especially criticised in debacles such as the Media Corp-Purple Lounge collapse.

Despite this, Dr. Zammit Lewis is on record as describing the industry as one of prime importance to Malta and a top priority for the newly-elected government.

Perhaps the appointment of Galea is part of a government initiative to improve operational aspects of the regulator’s service.

“The new government is committed to strengthen and grow the online gaming industry, both strategically and organically,” the minister said in announcing Galea’s appointment this week..

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