Arcade owners argue gaming machines contribute to the economy but at what cost to the gambler?
Attending the 4th annual show of electronic games and slot machines at the Leopardstown Racecourse in Dublin is chairperson of the Irish Amusement Trades Association Kieran Martin. This association represent all aspects of the amusement industry including manufacturers, distributors and arcade owners.
According to a survey carried out by the Irish Amusement Trades Association, the industry contributes greatly to the economy. In terms of exchequer returns they contribute about £50 million in VAT contributions and machine license duty in amusement arcades is £250 per machine. The industry also gives employment to about 5,000 people.
To those who question the morality of gaming machines Kieran Martin says,
You've always had gambling of one sort or another and gaming machines are only one part of that.
While punters will not win over all, an individual can win and a certain percentage will go back to the winner.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 23 March 1983. The reporter is Derek Davis.
