Report bets on green light for ‘casino-resorts’

LAWS allowing “casino-resorts” with up to 1,500 gambling machines, hundreds of gaming tables, entertainment and “multiple lifestyle experiences” have been recommended in a Department of Justice report submitted to the Government.

The laws would pave the way for the proposed €460 million Tipperary Venue resort and two or three other super-casinos.

Justice Minister Dermot Ahern said it’s unlikely the laws would be passed before the next general election, expected in March, but did not rule it out. He also said it was “facile” to suggest the report was published as a result of negotiations with independent TD Michael Lowry who agreed to support the Government in the budget vote and has lobbied for the building of a super-casino in his north Tipperary constituency. The development near the village of Two-Mile-Borris has received planning approval, with a replica White House as its centre-piece. But the law needs to be changed to allow developer and former garda Richard Quirke to proceed with the project.