Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 July 2013
161. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the revenue that would be raised from applying a 5% tax to national lottery winnings above €1000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36646/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the National Lottery that the total winnings over €1,000 in 2011 was of the order of €190 million. On this basis a tax or levy of 5% on National Lottery winnings over €1,000 would yield € 9.5 million. It was not possible to obtain the comparable figures for 2012 in the time available.
For reasons of equity, a levy such as is proposed in the question might have to be imposed on winnings over €1,000 from other lotteries, which could affect fundraising by charities and sports clubs.
Section 5 of the National Lottery Act 1986 provides that the surplus from the National Lottery may be used for the following purposes: national culture, including the Irish language; the arts, within the meaning of the Arts Act 1951; the health of the community; and for such other purposes as the Government may determine. The following categories have been so determined: youth, welfare, national heritage and amenities. A levy might have a behavioural effect on participation and reduce the surplus available for these purposes.
National Lottery winnings are currently specifically exempted from Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Capital Acquisitions Tax. I do not propose at this time to introduce a tax such as is suggested by the Deputy.
