Bemusements? The Murky World of Irish Slot Machines!
As Ireland continues to modernize and progress, it is important to consider the potential consequences that come with changes and new establishments. A proposed casino in Greystones is causing concern among local residents, as the issue of illegal and unregulated slot machines has come to the forefront. According to recent reports, tens of thousands of these machines could be in use across Ireland as casino and gaming arcade operators openly disregard rules that effectively ban them from many parts of the country.
The gaming industry in Ireland is one of the most lucrative in Europe, with Irish punters losing an average of €382 per adult in 2018. However, with little enforcement of laws surrounding licensing, stakes and prizes, the industry has been left to operate freely, and it is estimated that as many as 40,000 gaming machines could be in use across the country.
This leads to the possibility that over 30,000 machines could be unlicensed or improperly licensed, being run illegally under cheaper “amusement machine” permits. Examples of this can be found in both Tallaght and Santry, is this what we want for Greystones? If this estimate is accurate, Ireland would have the highest per-capita tally in Europe, behind only Monaco, and on par with Australia, which is widely considered to be the world’s slot machine capital.
Unlike in Australia, where machines are generally required to pay out 85% of all stakes in winnings, gaming machines in Ireland operate virtually unchecked under the State’s 63-year-old gambling laws. This lack of governance is most visible in Dublin, where gaming businesses have operated with virtual impunity in the face of a 30-year-old council ban. Players must be aged at least 16 to gamble in Ireland, but casinos routinely claim to enforce tougher restrictions, limiting entry and gaming to only those aged over 18 or 21, depending on the venue.
The Journal.ie conducted an investigation, sending a 14-year-old boy into several Dublin venues, where he was able to play a slot machine for nearly 10 minutes before being asked for identification. This raises questions about the enforcement of age restrictions and raises concerns about how these restrictions will be enforced in Greystones.
An Garda Siochána, which investigates breaches of gaming laws, did not respond to the Journal.ie directly when asked about the lack of enforcement of gaming laws. This lack of enforcement and regulation in the gaming industry is cause for concern for Greystones residents, as the proposed casino could bring these illicit gaming practices to their town.
In conclusion, the proposed casino in Greystones raises serious concerns about the lack of regulation and enforcement in the gaming industry in Ireland. As a community, it is important to consider the potential consequences of this establishment and to push for stronger laws and regulations to protect consumers and prevent illegal and unregulated practices. Let's work together to stop the casino in Greystones.
Local Intimidation
It is concerning to hear that those who have spoken out against the proposed casino in Greystones are being intimidated online. Such behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. It is important to remember that freedom of speech and the right to express one's opinion are fundamental rights that must be protected. The actions of these individuals are being documented and a file is being prepared for the Garda Siochána to investigate. It is imperative that we stand together as a community to stop the spread of such toxic behavior and maintain a safe and respectful environment for all. The proposed casino in Greystones has raised serious concerns among local residents and businesses, and it is important that their voices are heard and respected.
A more detailed insight to the illicit world of gaming can be found using the following link to www.TheJournal.ie. Thanks to Harry Wilcox for insightful and detailed work.