Irish bookmakers have described the proposal of President Michael D Higgins for further measures to restrict gambling advertising in sports as impractical.
The Chair of the Irish Bookmakers Association (IBA), Sharon Byrne, explained that the sector has already taken steps to tackle the problem and take care of problem gambling rates and possible gambling-related harm that could be inflicted on local residents. She shared that most people normally took gambling as a form of leisure and pastime activity, but there as still a small percentage of players who could encounter certain problems associated with their gambling habits.
Ms. Byrne said that the sector had always been a responsible one, offering adequate services and making sure that people were well aware of the possible consequences those services could have on their lives in case that their gambling behaviour becomes a problem.
As Casino Guardian already reported, President Higgins has raised a red flag on the possible impact that gambling could have on more vulnerable individuals. According to him, the gambling industry should not be allowed to promote its offerings at sporting events.
In an interview with RTÉ Radio, Higgins shared that he would do everything to see gambling operators’ access to advertising in sports restricted, despite the fact that as a President he was not able to affect the matter.
Fianna Fáil Pushes for Stricter Gambling Regulation
The Irish Republican Party, Fianna Fáil, has also called for stricter measures to be imposed on the industry as part of the Government’s efforts to tackle addiction. Anne Rabitte from Fianna Fáil commented on the matter, saying that the link between gambling and sport is too close. She reminded that the number of gambling adverts at times of large sports events such as the 2018 World Cup literally bombarded local customers during every ad break. According to the Republicans, such an approach is very unfair, especially in cases when more vulnerable people are being targeted by gambling operators.
As previously revealed by Casino Guardian, the Irish betting industry has been long been blamed for irresponsible behaviour and too aggressive advertising campaigns which often target individuals who are often more susceptible to addictions. On the other hand, the Government and the rest of the competent authorities have been criticised for deliberately delaying the long-awaited update of the gambling legislation in the country.
Now, the Junior Justice Minister David Stanton has reiterated the determination of the country’s Government to unveil broader regulation on gambling, including plans to restrict gambling advertising. As he revealed, the Government has been planning legislation to make sure that casinos, gaming machines and online gambling operations are controlled by an independent regulator. According to Mr. Stanton, a report on the upcoming gambling reforms in Ireland would be completed this autumn.
- Author
Daniel Williams
