The legality of it all

dangerman

Just wondering what the situation with regard to poker nights being held in pubs function rooms etc.

I heard the red cow hosted a big tournament dealy a while ago, so it's certainly possible.

But in terms of a pub owner just throwing together a poker night is that ok? What with the whole 'private members club' rules etc.

Any opinions/facts appreciated.

gerire

AHIK it has to be a charity gig wth a fair chunk going to a registered charity, usually it tends to be around 50%. So al you have to do is set up a charity............... Ill leave the rest to your imagination

MrPudding

This really is a subject that we really should get to the bottom of. My understanding is as Ger says. Upwards of 50% has to go to charity.

On the other hand, I think the Poker.ie organised tournie did not have to do this. I was not there but from what I heard everyone had to pay €10 to join a club, I think this did away with the charity aspect.

Who would one contact to get a difinitive answer on this? I will do the legwork, I just need to know where to start.

MrP

Waylander

The Red Cow have a tournament annually. You could always call the manager there and ask him what special requirements they had to fulfill to host this.

Hyzepher

AFAIK the rule comes under the Private Members draw - just like pub/club lottos. 50% must go to charity if it is a public event. The Fitz and Merrion can operate under the Private Members umbrella just like a casino but 'technically' not open to the public - available only to the members.

Gambling on a license premises is against the law regardless of private/public status - that's why the Fitz/Merion don't sell drink.

Hyzepher

Lafortezza

Originally posted by MrPudding
On the other hand, I think the Poker.ie organised tournie did not have to do this. I was not there but from what I heard everyone had to pay €10 to join a club, I think this did away with the charity aspect.
MrP

Closer to €40 to join.....for one tournament....
think of the value!!!1

mewso

It may surprise you but the answers to these questions are contained in legislation. Those thingys that describe laws. So if you want to do the legwork then read all the Gaming & Lottery Acts:-

Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 - http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1956_2.html
Gaming and Lotteries Act 1970 - http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1970_6.html
Gaming and Lotteries Act 1979 - http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1979_6.html

In 1986 the National Lottery Act came in to allow for said comp. The 1956 act is apparently under review but I'm not sure of the actual status of that.

MrPudding

Cheers.

MrP

Oops. IPs are restricted.

mewso

Not the best site going, this irish statute book. I've corrected the links.