Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 2 October 2013

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality

Gambling Control Bill: Discussion

12:05 pm

Mr. Joe Lewins:

The Bill suggests one can only advertise odds 12 hours before an event. Take Punchestown, where Boylesports, Paddy Power and ourselves would be sponsors. We sponsor what is called the World Hurdle. To maximise the promotion, we would like to advertise what the odds are to win the World Hurdle more than 12 hours beforehand. If we are constrained and are only allowed to do anything to market or promote 12 hours beforehand, bookmakers and others would review the value of the sponsorship. The sponsor is making people aware of the brand, which is why one sponsors. The 12-hour restriction on being able to advertise the odds would be restrictive for betting shops and sponsors. If an event is taking place two months hence, such as Cheltenham, not being able to-----