New Irish Gambling Regulations

Ireland's finance Minister, Michael Noonan has pushed through the countries long awaited Betting (Amendment) Bill 2012. The new bill obligates any bookmaker taking bets from Irish residents to obtain an Irish betting license and seeks to ensure fair treatment of Irish gamblers. Bookies based outside of Ireland will be required to hold a remote bookmaker's license.

The new law is expected to see Irish revenue from online gambling licenses significantly increase. Noonan commented that the exemption from taxes by offshore bookmakers represented a 'competitive disadvantage' for on-shore firms. It is hoped that the extension of the law to cover off-shore companies will bring significant investment to the Island by operators who may consider moving to Ireland. A similar bill in the U.K that proposes to add 15% POC (point of consumption) charge on online casinos is expected to bring in an extra £239 million in annual revenues.  

Where can Irish gamblers play

Irish players will be able to play at a number of very large and established online casinos such as William Hill and 888. William Hill already have a dedicated Irish site for eager players crossing their fingers for the big win! and many other online casinos are following suit to offer special bonuses and Irish player only privileges.

What is on offer

William Hill is offering Irish sports punters a staggering 500,000 betting opportunities on GAA football, horse racing, rugby, golf, motor sprts, US sports and a wide range of Irish novelty markets including the Irish lottery. To take into account the huge growth in mobile betting in the last few years, William Hill already has four mobile apps including, sportsbook, Racing, Shake-A-Bet and Match predictor. 

888 are offering £88 in free bets for new members as well as a host of other freebies to it's Irish players. There is also Irish horse racing on offer as well as many other Irish specials. bet365 sport are offering a $200 welcome bonus to new members as well as superb daily, weekly and end week promotions. 

Irish players are spoiled for choice with other well trusted casinos such as paddypower who are offering fantastic bonuses and Money Back Specials. Visit here to view a complete list of all the Irish casinos special offers for Irish punters. 

How do the new regulations affect Irish punters

In short, the new regulations are aimed at increasing fair treatment of Irish players. The new regulation will see online casinos vying for your membership and Irish players will benefit from even more bonuses and an increase in Irish only betting options!