Games offered by bookmakers throughout the State may be illegal

Games offered by bookmakers throughout the State may be illegal, giving rise to major tax and licensing implications for the industry, an investigation by the Irish Examiner has learned.

The popular game of ‘virtual roulette’, available in all leading bookmaker shops, is not covered by the bookmaker’s licence, according to an opinion from the Revenue Commissioners.

Currently, bookmakers pay the 1% betting duty on the activity, for which operators of gaming clubs and the holders of gaming licences must pay 23% Vat on their takings.