Gambling has remained an integral part of Irish culture for centuries, and during all this time, the industry remained unregulated. However, the rapid evolution of the digital sector and increased user engagement in online casinos and sportsbooks created particular challenges. Reports indicate that almost half of the country’s residents gamble regularly, and 1 in 30 adults in Ireland struggle with gaming-related disorders. Increased addition rates influenced the government’s decision to update the existing legislation and implement new requirements to gain more control over the market.
Legality of Gambling in Ireland
Of course, users usually wonder whether gambling is legal in their jurisdiction and if they are allowed to visit online and offline casinos. The industry was never restricted in the country, so risk-seekers over 18 can enjoy this pastime. On the other hand, the growing number of users negatively affected by gambling called for regulatory changes. The Irish government has introduced amendments to the sector in 2022, and they are projected to come into force shortly. The Gambling Regulation Bill is the main document that brings updates and promotions and a responsible approach to casino and betting activities. Have a look at more aspects that the new legislation touches on.
Enhanced Consumer Protection
Eliminating compulsive gambling among the Irish population is among the main goals of the local regulatory authority. Informing customers about the possible risks and threats is the key priority to decrease the number of problem players in the state. In addition, the new law implies launching a self-exclusion program similar to the UK’s GamStop. The tool restricts access to potentially harmful content and allows users to recover from disorders to start gambling again. It’s only possible to stop GamStop self-exclusion after a problem player passes treatment and develops a healthy approach to online casinos.
Even though many risk-seekers are not happy with the possibility of limited access to their favourite pastime, GamStop has already shown its efficiency in the British market, and Ireland aims to consider this example. Besides self-exclusion, the regulatory body obliges in-country operators to increase user awareness about the possible risks. Licensed platforms must provide links to helplines and support groups so that users with the first symptoms of gambling disorders can get immediate treatment.
Limitations on Payment Systems
Irish players can take advantage of multiple banking solutions in online casinos, including debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid vouchers, etc. However, the regulatory authority prohibits using borrowed money for gambling activities. Gaming enthusiasts cannot deposit funds via credit cards since this often results in overspending and compulsive problems. Despite these restrictions, Irish gamblers can control their habits by using responsible payment methods. Players often try to cheat and send credit cash to other banking options like digital wallets, but this won’t work since financial institutions thoroughly monitor all the transactions.
Advertisement Restrictions in the Irish Market
Sponsorships and ads are a common way for online casinos and bookmakers to promote themselves and increase customer engagement. The new regulation implies restrictions on promotional materials: operators must ensure their content doesn’t target vulnerable individuals. This especially concerns younger individuals who are more prone to gambling disorders, reflecting the growing awareness of the problem of gambling addiction in Ireland. Casino and betting advertisements are limited during daytime: operators cannot launch promotions on media from 5:30 AM to 9 PM.
Establishment of the Local Regulatory Authority
The Irish iGaming market is known for its flexibility: operators licensed in different jurisdictions can legally operate there. However, the new Bill implies creating an in-state controlling authority to issue licences and supervise the sector. All gambling companies must obtain a certification according to their services and ensure compliance with the current requirements. The inability to meet these requirements will lead to severe penalties for the operator and the company’s closure, which is why online casinos and bookmakers should consider the latest updates.
The Future of Gambling in Ireland
The gambling reform was initiated in 2022, but its enforcement has been delayed due to additional discussions. The law is projected to be implemented in the near future, after which the country’s iGaming market will experience significant changes. Experts predict that the number of online casinos and sportsbooks will slightly decrease since not all operators will comply with new regulations.
However, the update aims to make the sector more transparent and safer for all parties. Consumer protection and coping with compulsive problems among the population remain the number one goal for authorities. Irish online casinos are obliged to promote a responsible approach to gambling and implement player protection measures to limit access for vulnerable populations, which will eventually boost well-being in the state. Even though risk-seekers are not always happy with restrictions, the changes aim to improve their lives and develop a responsible approach to iGaming.
Final Insight
Gambling regulations are updated globally due to the fast development of the digital sector and increased user engagement. Of course, Ireland is no exception. The country’s government aims to control the market and protect customers from possible threats. Addiction remains the primary industry challenge, targeting a significant part of the Irish population, and the Gambling Regulation Bill will address this issue and cover other aspects of casinos’ operations.
