A special investigation by the Irish Examiner newspaper suggests ‘virtual roulette’ in betting shops could be illegal because of incorrect licensing, meaning bookmakers may be liable in future tax cases.
Revenue Commissioners believe the activity has been misrepresented and may have serious repercussions upon renewal of gambling licences, with the possibility of a legal challenge looking increasingly likely.
“Roulette on bookmakers’ premises is presented as ‘betting’, on the basis that a slip is required to be filled in and presented to the attendant. However, the Revenue Commissioners believes that the activity falls under the heading of ‘gaming’, as opposed to ‘betting’, and is therefore illegal,” the article states.