Calls for gambling bill to be fast-track
Cork County Councillors have offered an “encouraging reminder” to the Government to enact its recently approved Gambling Regulation Bill as soon as possible.
Green Party Cllr Alan O'Connor called for a letter to be sent to Minister of State at the Department of Justice, James Browne TD asking that “whatever scrutiny remains to be done, let's do it”.
On Tuesday, the Government approved the publication of Ireland’s new Gambling Regulation Bill, led by Minister Browne. The bill, which is expected to be enacted next year, provides for the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority which will focus on public safety and well-being.
The authority will oversee gambling online and in person, with the powers to regulate advertising, gambling websites and apps. The bill will also provide for the establishment of a Social Impact Fund for the purposes of financing research and information, education and awareness raising measures.
A watershed prohibiting gambling advertising between 5.30am and 9pm will also be introduced. Speaking at Monday’s full meeting of Cork County Council, Cllr O’Connor said the bill has been in circulation “for a few years now” and comes at a time when it has never been easier to gamble in Ireland.
He said: “For most people who place a bet, gambling isn't a problem. In the long run you lose of course, you can't beat the system, but it's just a recreational cost like going to the cinema.
“For many though, gambling becomes a very serious problem and worse than that, an addiction.
“But most seriously and sadly of all in terms of outcomes, a 2021 public health study in England estimated that in 1 year, 409 suicides could be associated with problem gambling.”
Independent Cllr Gillian Coughlan who works as a secondary school teacher said she has heard a lot of talk among students about laying bets and the odds on different games.
“It is important this legislation be sped up,” she said.
Fine Gael’s Anthony Barry added: “As someone who likes the occasional flutter myself on horses and even on the odd match, it's fine for those that can walk away from it, but there are a large number of people that have an addictive personality.
“As somebody said to me many years ago, it might take you 10 years to drink a farm, but you can gamble it in 1 night.”
Welcoming the Government’s decision to publish the bill, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said it is an important and necessary piece of legislation, designed to meet the challenges of gambling responsibly in 21st century Ireland.
“This long awaited and much needed bill takes a responsible approach to balancing the freedom to gamble with the safeguards to protect people from falling prey to addiction. This bill provides a clearer framework for operators and for consumers,” said the Taoiseach.