Irish Betting Duty Change - Over 1115 jobs lost, 223 Shops closed,

resulting in less Direct tax contributions of over €24,000,000

This Government must ensure that any new legislation allows us to develop and modernise our shops in line with all other businesses, and that social responsibility practices similar to those used in Irish betting shops for the last couple of years, is embedded in any legislation for all sectors of this industry.

We also need to ensure that the new legislation allows us to compete with off shore internet and phone companies, and protects the businesses that are providing over 6000 jobs in Ireland.

Proliferation of unlicensed and unlawful gaming machines, and betting exchange machines, in various unlicensed outlets across the country, is assisted by legislation which is not fit for purpose. It must be ammended and introduced as a matter of urgency, to protect the vulnerable, to control their useage and to maximise returns for the exchequer.

Over 1115 jobs have been lost in betting shops over the last 24 months. Many more are imminent.

Direct tax contributions of over €24,000,000 have been lost as a result of 223 shop closures. This does not take into account the income lost to local businesses who supply various products and services to betting shops.