Ireland to increase gambling tax?

[The Buzz]

GamingZion has posted an article about rumors in Ireland that finance minister Brian Lenihan may soon propose a gambling tax increase. This change would be levied both on land-based and online operators.

From GamingZion:

Changes to Irish gambling laws as a part of December’s budget review could see the existing 1% tax on gambling turnover extended to include online operators, a possibility that has internet gambling providers nervous.

Another rumor has said that a 2% tax might also be levied on players who win money at online sportsbooks in Ireland. This possibility has also sparked an outcry in the island nation.

The Irish Bookmakers' Association has suggested that these tax increases could cause a huge number of betting shops in Ireland to close their doors, taking hundreds of jobs down with them. “We believe that 400 of the 1,200 would shut up overnight. It would kill jobs in the industry,” said IBA chairwoman Sharon Byrne.

[best.hands]

The law makers in Ireland should get themselves ready then for the unemployed rally on the streets right in front of their offices facade.

[davenewgates]

Since said gambling tax increase proposal was not yet proposed, let's just all wait and see, and if it has been already proposed, for sure there would still be a proper review about that before making the decision and finality. Therefore, actual and online casinos in Ireland can still have an opportunity to explain themselves if they have a valid explanation regarding their appeal.

[AdrienneJay]

It might be not a good idea if the Ireland increases their gambling revenues.

[Anthony]

Ireland desperately needs the money.

http://www.boston.com/business/artic...out_by_the_eu/

Even with a bailout from the EU, they have to generate more revenue.

[JoeAdams]

Yeah right, probably the Ireland needs an additional income for their tax revenues that's why they see online gambling as a major source.