Irish Parliament Approves Comprehensive Gambling Regulation Bill

Key Elements of the Bill

On October 16, the lower house of the Irish parliament, Dáil Éireann, approved the long-anticipated Gambling Regulation Bill. This legislative move marks a crucial step toward modernizing Ireland’s gambling laws and establishing a dedicated regulatory authority.

The legislation introduces several stringent measures, including a ban on the use of credit cards for gambling and restrictions on bonuses and advertising. It also proposes the creation of a national self-exclusion scheme to help individuals control their gambling habits. Additionally, a social impact fund supported by a mandatory levy on gambling operators will be established to address gambling-related harms.

Labour Party Deputy Brendan Howlin acknowledged that while the bill may not be flawless, it is urgently needed to tackle pressing social issues related to gambling. “It deals with one of the most pressing social issues,” he stated during the parliamentary session.

Timeline for Enactment

James Browne, the lead deputy on the bill, expressed optimism about the legislation being enacted within the year. “That would certainly be the aim, although we can never be certain about these things,” he noted. The impending general election, required to be held by March 2025, could potentially influence the bill’s progression.

In the final stages, several amendments were introduced to strengthen the bill. One key amendment grants the new regulator the authority to publish details of any breaches by licensees and the sanctions imposed. This aims to increase transparency and deter illegal activities. The regulator will also have the power to seek court orders to block advertising from unlicensed and illegal operators.

Some parliamentary members expressed concerns that the bill was being rushed, given the extensive amendments introduced late in the process. Deputy Howlin highlighted the complexity of the legislation and the broad spectrum of issues it addresses.

Questions were raised about the expertise of those who will serve on the regulatory authority’s board. Browne assured that board members would have significant experience in gambling regulation and an understanding of gambling-related issues, including the pathology of betting and lived experiences.

Advertising Restrictions

The bill places strict limitations on advertising, preventing licensed gambling operators from marketing their brands or products online. Members raised concerns that operators might circumvent these restrictions by offering incentives for customers to sign up for direct marketing communications. Browne responded by emphasizing that the regulator would have the power to enforce further regulations to prevent such loopholes.

With the Dáil Éireann’s approval, the bill now moves forward to be signed into law by the president. The legislation represents a comprehensive effort to reform Ireland’s gambling industry, balancing the need for industry oversight with the protection of consumers and vulnerable populations.