Ireland to ban gambling ads together with other new bans
After a recent discussion on September 25 and 26, the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 in the Republic of Ireland will soon have its final approval.
The new bill aims to establish a regulated online gambling market, led by the new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. Later, it will also have a national self-exclusion system, together with a social impact fund funded by a mandatory levy.
After facing delays since May, the bill will finally move from the committee stage to the report stage. Once final statements are delivered to the Dáil Éireann, they can be signed into law by President Michael Higgins, bringing notable changes to the gambling market in Ireland.
Senator Shane Cassells said:
“It is to his credit that the minister of state, Deputy Browne has stayed the course in compiling such detailed and very much-needed legislation. I commend the minister on ensuring its passage and making sure it got to this stage. I hope we see it passed and brought into law because the pressing need for it is greater now than ever.”
Senators have expressed their support for the bill, commending James Browne, the Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality. His efforts to overcome the challenges in the legislative process show an optimistic move towards a safer and more regulated gambling environment for all citizens in Ireland.
Senator Michael McDowell commented:
“If anybody here watches satellite TV to the extent I do they will know that virtually everything is infected by gambling.”
James Browne, Ireland’s minister of state at the Department of Justice and Equality, said:
“As I have previously stated, I have concerns about adopting an absolute ban on advertising from the outset. Gambling is a lawful and legitimate activity and the bill, as amended by the Dáil, further empowers the authority to be able to react and regulate advertising accordingly.”
All these steps are being taken to promote responsible gambling in Ireland and provide support for all those who suffer from gambling addiction. Moreover, Ireland may soon discuss credit card betting bans as well.
Today, on October 2, the debate will start again.