Ireland gets benefits from legal gaming

A crackdown on illegal gaming has led to further licences granted and, therefore, bigger revenues.

Ireland.- The Irish government’s fight for ending illegal gaming operations has resulted in the first benefits, according to this week’s report. The Irish authorities confirmed that a crackdown on illegal gaming services resulted in operators obtaining authorised licences and, therefore, the government obtained further casino revenues via taxes.

Yesterday’s report shows that the Office of the Revenue Commissioners collected over €1 million (US$1.15 million) in taxes in 2017. As stated by Ireland’s Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, the increase in the government’s benefits from casino industry is due to new licences granted to operators who previously were offering illegal services.

According to the representative, the Revenue office is “alert to, and proactive in addressing, the risks posed by the gaming and amusement sector.” He further stated, “Using a range of compliance interventions the project, which is operating on a national basis, has achieved a significant increase in tax and licensing compliance.”

Donohoe revealed to legislators last month that the government would set a crackdown on illegal gaming machines, which are currently installed in different casino-style salons, bars and other entertainment facilities in Dublin. Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan brought the proposal to Cabinet earlier this year as part of a new crackdown on betting firms. The measure also wants to set fresh restrictions on TV and online adverts, as well as a new basis to regulate the gambling sector.