Ireland Nears Introduction of Stricter Gambling Regulations
An important step towards introducing new online gambling regulations has been taken by Ireland.
Ireland’s new gambling regulations have moved a step closer. © GregMontani, Pixabay
Ireland Close to Passing Gambling Regulation Bill 2022
Ireland is moving closer to passing new gambling regulations, which include a cap on wins.
The country has long been considering passing fresh laws to help people stay in control of their spending on bets, but the bill has been delayed several times.
Now, though, the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 could finally be on the way after a two-day debate was held recently. Junior justice minister James Browne suggested that the proposed legislation could even be passed into law within a matter of weeks.
However, the prospect of a general election taking place in Ireland could yet scupper the laws, which include setting up a new statutory authority that would be called the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland being brought in to regulate the market.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin has spoken in favour of regulations, describing gambling addiction as a “terrible disease”, but the Irish Bookmakers Association has aired concerns.
Combating Addiction
During the debate, Senator Cassells hit out at those who claimed new gambling regulations for Ireland constitute a “nanny state” approach.
He noted changes to the laws in the country are needed in order to combat gambling addiction.
“All of the research that has been produced states those who suffer from addictions grossly understate the reality, and that is not just here but in the UK and the United States.” – Shane Cassells, Senator
The Senator also criticised members of both Houses of the Oireachtas who he suggested have acted as lobbyists for the gambling industry:
“Shame on those Members. I ask them to come to some of the gambling addiction meetings where I see people lose everything, not just money but family, businesses, and homes.” – Shane Cassells, Senator
Advertising betting companies will be restricted under new rules in Ireland, but a proposed amendment to ban it entirely was rejected.
Black Market Risks
While many have welcomed the impending arrival of new gambling regulations in Ireland, others within the industry have highlighted the risks of black market betting.
The Vice-President of Lottoland UK and Ireland Mike Kirwan claimed some people could be tempted to cross the border to Belfast to gamble instead.
“New measures look set to undermine the stated objective of harm prevention in the new Gambling Regulation Bill and will only lead to the proliferation of black-market gambling, with punters flocking to Northern Ireland to avoid the win caps.” – Mike Kirwan, Vice-President of Lottoland UK and Ireland
Lottoland produced research earlier in the year that found almost three-quarters of daily gamblers in Ireland would go for alternative types of betting if the country brings in measures.
New legislation would limit the amount of money that individuals can place on a bet to just €10, while it would not be possible to win more than €3,000 from a wager.
