Celtic Bookmakers closes 16 outlets; 29 shops saved
The receiver of Celtic Bookmakers is hoping to save 29 of the 47 outlets, which were previously owned by former politician and broadcaster Ivan Yates.
Yesterday, 16 of the bookies’ shops were closed. As a result, 56 jobs were lost. Four stores in Dublin were closed, along with others in Kilkenny, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, Kerry, Sligo, Mayo, Galway and Roscommon.
The outlets will reopen for one day next week to pay out on all bets.
The remaining 29 are for sale and receive Hughes Blake is seeking expressions of interest.
Neil Hughes, the receiver, is selling the fully-fitted and staffed stores as going concerns.
About 44 expressions of interest have already been received from Paddy Power, Boylesports and Ladbrokes, among others.
If sold, about 175 jobs could be saved.
Celtic Bookmakers was placed into receivership last month with debts of about €6m.