Vol. 496 No. 6
37 Mr. McGahon asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the danger posed to the Irish bookmaking industry by the introduction of offshore tax free betting; and if he will consider a further reduction in betting tax to enable staff to keep their jobs. [22401/98]
69 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the increase in offshore betting facilities offered to the public; the estimated loss of revenue which will arise from the utilisation of these facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23701/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 69 together.
Any change in the tax rates is a matter for the budget and I cannot give any indication in that regard at this time.
I assure the House that I am aware of the developments referred to by the Deputies concerning offshore betting and my officials and those of the Revenue Commissioners are monitoring these developments closely.
