Government bids to tax online gambling and ban super-casinos

TAXING online gambling and a crackdown on unregulated clubs are planned as the Government attempts to raise money and protect addicts.

The moves come as it was revealed there has been a 30% rise in gamblers seeking help.

But an overhaul of gambling laws would spell the end for the planned €460 million super-casino in Tipperary, with the development of Las Vegas-style resorts being ruled out.

However, the developers vowed to press ahead with their plans.

Businessman Richard Quirke, the main backer of the venue, said he would examine plans without a casino or with a smaller one.

Proposals to modernise the gambling industry include:

* Allowing a limited number of moderate-sized casinos.

* Checking and assessing the history and finances of gambling promoters.

* Banning large gambling resorts over fears of attracting “undesirable” elements.

* Prohibiting fixed-odds betting terminals.

* Closing loopholes for online gambling, including setting taxes.

* Charging a levy for help and education services.

Departments are also examining changes to taxes that could yield up to €100m annually from online gambling and betting shops. But laws are unlikely to be drafted until next year.

Dublin’s Rutland Centre warned it had seen a 30% rise in people presenting for help with gambling.