Social Democrats propose 5% betting tax in Ireland
Ireland’s Social Democrats proposed raising the betting tax from 2% to 5% to fund sports and cultural initiatives in disadvantaged areas. Deputy Aidan Farrelly said the change could raise more than €165 million annually; the Irish Bookmakers Association and Flutter Entertainment warned of potential effects on local bookmakers, jobs and investment.
If adopted, the proposal would raise betting operators’ tax rate and direct the proceeds to sports and cultural programmes.