The Lotto Receivers' Union protested today that deductions of lotto winnings were taking place too frequently and could push players to illegal gaming.
In a statement it said that what was taking place was contrary to its advice.
While it recognised that a quota of maximum winnings was necessary, the union said it disagreed with the system introduced by Maltco. Although Maltco had agreed with the government, four years ago, that the new system would be revised every six months, no such revision had been made.
The union said it was never consulted on any analysis or revision. Seven deductions of winnings had taken place so far this year, serving only to guarantee revenue for Maltco, the union said. But, it warned, players were losing confidence and could resort to illegal games.