SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
500 jobs and over €16 million (£13m) could be lost if delays in implementing Ireland’s Betting Amendment Bill are allowed to continue.
In a three page briefing document presented to members of the House of Deputies and Senate, the Irish Bookmakers Association said if the bill fails to be passed before summer break, jobs will be lost on 1st September when retail betting shops are forced to close at 6:30pm. However, the organisation points out that online operators can continue as normal, despite paying no betting tax.
The group, which represents 70 per cent of Irish bookmakers and independent providers, believes that the Irish retail betting sector is in severe decline, having witnessed the closure of 366 shops, a 27 per cent drop in the total number of units since 2008, resulting in the loss of approximately 1700 staff.
Chairperson Sharon Byrne said: “With 500 jobs being lost unnecessarily, and antiquated legislation that continues to allow tax free betting, we hope time can be found to get the legislation through before summer recess.”
IBA argue that extended opening hours, which would allow licensed premises to trade until 10pm in the winter months, will enhance competition and level the playing field, while generating €6 million (£5m) in additional taxes every year. They added that reform of the taxation system is needed, where, at present, bookmakers pay a one per cent tax on turnover, and contribute around €30 million (£24.4m) to Horse Racing Ireland for picture rights.
“This tax is paid on Turnover and not profits, which means even if the bookmaker is losing money, he must pay this penal tax rate. No other form of gambling pays this duty, so online and mobile operators have a severe competitive advantage as a result,” the report reveals.
