We are relieved that the Government were able to address the grave error made in last years budget and prevent the thousands of job losses that were looming unnecessarily.

We are now concentrating on the new legislation that is being prepared to regulate the entire gambling industry. We must ensure that the legislation allows us to develop and modernise our shops in line with all other businesses, and that social responsibility practices similar to those used in Irish betting shops for the last couple of years, is embedded in any legislation for all sectors of this industry.

We also need to ensure that the new legislation allows us to compete with off shore internet and phone companies, and protects the businesses that are providing over 6000 jobs in Ireland.

Over 465 jobs have been lost in betting shops over the last 12 months. Many more are imminent.

Direct tax contributions of over 10,000,000 have been lost as a result of shop closures. This does not take into account the income lost to local businesses who supply various products and services to betting shops.

There have been 93 closures in last 12 months, with many shops trying to close but are tied into various contracts and leases.