THE vast majority of Ireland’s 850 betting shops had shut their doors by Wednesday evening and will stay closed until at least the end of this month.

Paddy Power and BoyleSports, the two biggest chains in Ireland, announced on Monday their plans to voluntarily cease trading in their shops.

A statement from the Irish Bookmakers Association, whose members include Ladbrokes and most independently owned bookmakers, shortly followed.

It said: “Most members have decided to cease trading in the next couple of days, until at least March 29th.

“The decision was made by operators after discussions about the clear Irish government guidance that has been issued around social distancing. The decision lies with each retailer whether they close their doors and how they look after and inform their staff and customers.”

Paddy Power closed their shops on Monday night while BoyleSports kept theirs opened until Wednesday evening.

Conor Gray, chief executive of BoyleSports, said: “BoyleSports has a responsibility to protect its staff and customers. Like other Irish business we also have a responsibility to support the Government’s social isolation policy. The closure of our shops supports this policy.”

Although Irish racing is continuing, on-course bookmakers are not permitted to attend and will lose out on significant business as long as the behind-closed-doors policy stays in place.