08/12/2011

Online Betting Tax Worth €20M Per Year

The Irish exchequer could benefit by up to €20 million per year after online betting tax regulations are implemented, the Government has said.

Fine Gael Cork South TD, Noel Harrington, said the proposed extension of the betting tax would provide a significant boost to the Exchequer, which he claimed would be ring-fenced to provide additional supports for gambling addiction services.

Mr Harrington said that, to date, betting duties have only applied to bets placed in betting shops while bets placed by Irish punters either online or over the phone were essentially with offshore entities, falling outside the tax net.

Speaking on Thursday, TD Harrington said: “It is estimated that the Exchequer could benefit by up to €20 million in a full year by extending betting duty in this way. This money could, and should, be ring-fenced to provide for addiction services and supports.

“Given the increase in online betting and the prevalence of the smart phone, it makes sense to tap this sector to assist those struggling with gambling addictions."

The Minister added that the tax would "send a signal" to international betting operations that Ireland had relatively low taxes, making Ireland an "attractive possibility" for investment and employment opportunities.

(DW)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

26 May 2009
No More Income Tax Hikes, Claims Lenihan
The Finance Minister Brian Lenihan has said there will be no further income tax increases this year. The vow comes only a month after the Government doubled the income levies in the emergency budget. Despite the assurances, Mr Lenihan has confirmed that a property tax and a carbon tax were being considered.
14 March 2024
Alliance Calls For Action To Protect Young People Online
The Alliance Party has called for action to help young people faced with blackmail or similar situations online.
24 April 2024
Making The Most Of Your Man Cave Or Games Room
Every home needs a space for retreat. Whether it is to chill out and relax after a hard day’s work or to entertain friends during a fun evening in. Investing in developing this space can help boost your pleasure and comfort. How can you accomplish that? Most people like to call it a man cave.
19 February 2019
Urgent Action Needed On Outstanding Tax Payments Of €4.3bn
Labour has called for urgent action on outstanding tax payments of €4.3 billion owed to Revenue as of 31 January, 2019. According to Labour Finance spokesperson Joan Burton, a total of €969m is immediately available for collection and would make a significant difference to public services.
11 November 2016
Concerns Raised Over Impact Of Trump's Tax Plans On Ireland
Concerns have been raised over the impact of US President-Elect Donald Trump's plans to reduce American corporation tax to 15%. Sinn Féin and Labour have both called on the Government to address concerns over the impact such a tax policy could have on Ireland.