There may be around 15 members-only gambling clubs in Dublin but the newly opened Sporting Emporium anticipates scooping up to 25% of the market. The development off Grafton Street has 12,000 sq ft of gambling over three floors - Chronicle Bookmakers open to the public on the ground floor with the two floors above housing the casino, which is a private members club to comply with Irish gaming law. Anyone wishing to become a member will have to take a biometric fingerprint test, as well as provide the usual photographic ID and be 21 or over, before being issued a personal membership card. Once admitted, the drinks will be free and the betting unlimited.

The businessman who owns London City Airport and stakes in Manchester United and Celtic football clubs, financier Dermot Desmond, has invested €5.5 million (US$6.7 million) in the venture. Although there will be no betting limit, providing another member will accept the bet, play will be monitored to avoid potential money laundering. The club hopes to attract a wide range of clientele, from those who gamble in cents to those who bet thousands of euros.

The Sporting Emporium has 14 card tables, 8 blackjack, 6 roulettes and 1 pai gow. Chronicle Bookmakers is the leading on-course bookmaker in Ireland, and the new business below the casino is a joint venture between its founder, Justin Carthy, and Dermot Desmond. A wide range of global sporting and betting events will be shown on 46 plasma screens, and betting will be on kiosk-style touch screens. The casino will be open daily from 2 p.m. to 6 a.m. (E-10.27.05)

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