Extra powers on on-course betting are given to the Irish Horseracing Authority (IHA) and Bord na gCon in a Bill introduced by the Minister for Agriculture.

Mr Walsh said that reduction of the on-course betting levy to zero per cent, and the introduction of turnover and flat-rate charges on off-course and on-course bookmakers, required legislation.

It was proposed to give power to the IHA and Bord na gCon to alter the new on-course betting turnover charge from time to time subject to the consent of the Minister, and to set and alter the on-course flat-rate bookmaker charges at their own discretion.

Introducing the Horse and Greyhound Racing (Betting Charges and Levies) Bill, the Minister said the new off-course betting turnover and betting shop charges may be amended by the Minister with the consent of the Minister for Finance.