While there are countries that have actively banned online casinos, like the United States, and there are countries that have actively embraced online casinos, like Estonia, there are also countries that have remained inactive on the issue.  That is the situation in Ireland and it will change soon if the country knows what is best.  That is not meant to be a threat, it is just that Ireland could really benefit if they fought for their share of the online casinos market.

Hanging over Ireland like a cloud that rains rusted water is the antiquated 1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act.  This federal law prohibits casinos from operating in the country.  It has also hampered any progress for the gambling business in Ireland.

Several countries in Europe have gotten involved in online casinos and have reaped the benefits of the highly lucrative industry.  Online casinos are now legal in Estonia, France, Spain, and the list goes on.  Online casinos are also receiving some friendly attention in on the other side of the Atlantic as counties like Argentina have passed legalization legislation. 

If Ireland got involved with the online casino industry the nation could really benefit as a whole.  For example if Ireland could secure a 5 percent chunk of the online casinos industry, it would create 5,000 new jobs and good paying jobs at that.  Each job could be worth approximately $55,000 each year.  If Ireland has any real ambition of getting such a modest yet significant chunk of online casinos, it must happen before a mega power like the United States gets involved.