Irish Bookmakers Association welcomes passing of new Gambling Bill
Trade body states this is a significant step to developing a regulatory system in Ireland
The Irish Bookmakers Association (IBA) has heralded the passing of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, in November, as a major step forward to creating a sustainable regulatory system in Ireland.
In a statement, the IBA said: “A fit-for-purpose and appropriately resourced regulatory authority is essential to the sustainable future of the retail bookmaking industry. The publication of the bill is a much-needed step towards legislative reform of the gambling sector in this regard. “
The bill in question was approved by the Irish government and will see wide-ranging changes to how gambling companies function in the country.
The new legislation will see the creation of the first Gambling Regulatory Authority which will focus on public safety and wellbeing across all industry sectors.
There will also be a number of new measures brought in to better protect the public and those most at risk of gambling harm.
Among these new measures is a blanket ban on advertising on TV and radio until after the watershed at 9pm every day while ads must not appeal to children.
There is also a ban on all enticements such as VIP programmes, free bets and special offers.
Sharon Byrne, chairperson of the IBA, said: “Today is a landmark day in the reform of gambling legislation. The bill, when enacted, will enable the industry to continue to develop the highest standards for safer gambling in Ireland.
“The final act must ensure that consumers are protected through practical and effective measures which are applied across the entire gambling spectrum. For industry, it must provide clarity and certainty for bookmakers while also allowing sufficient flexibility to ensure the regulatory regime can keep pace with technological developments.
“The IBA and its members are eager to provide any assistance required in the development of this legislation, and our members have significant expertise and experience of best-in-class regulatory regimes internationally,” she added.
Following the passing of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, EGR spoke to several key figures about their thoughts on what this landmark bill could mean for the gambling industry in Ireland going forward.