Irish Senators Discuss Responsibilities and Launch Date for Gambling Regulator

The topic of problem gambling has taken center stage in Irish Oireachtas as the Senators discussed the introduction of an independent gambling regulator in Ireland. for 2023.

According to the conditions "Interim Law on Gambling and Lotteries" , took place in December 2020 The government will undertake a major overhaul of Irish gambling rules in 2021 with the aim of modernizing existing legislation dating back to 1931 and 1956.

Beginning of consideration of his final debate, deputy James brown , Minister of State in the Ministry of Justice, stressed the importance of establishing core responsibilities an independent regulatory body that will oversee Irish gambling in 2023.

Appeal to Shonad Eyre Eann , Brown's deputy, argued that Ireland's current regulatory framework is fragmented due to the fact that it is "widespread across a number of departments and agencies," which in turn contributes to a "inconsistent regulatory environment."

Continuing, the Deputy stated that: “The new regulator, when fully operational, will take over all current gambling licensing and regulatory responsibilities. as new and broader compliance responsibilities ”.

Explaining in detail to the senators the scope of the regulator, he noted: “When it is established that the regulator will have the necessary enforcement powers for licensing and the power to take action in cases where individuals or operators fail to comply with rules and regulations.

“Its main goals will be: to prevent gambling from becoming a source or a source of crime; ensure that gambling is conducted honestly and openly so that companies can make decisions with confidence; and demand the promotion of safe and responsible gambling, and fight problem gambling. "

However, answering questions from some Senators argued that the introduction of an independent regulatory body should happen sooner than later in 2023.

Senator Alice-Mary Higgins A Dublin-based independent legislator said it believes the regulator should take action earlier than 2023 due to the "perfect storm" created by the pandemic for those suffering from gambling-related harm.

“The lack of regulation means we get round-the-clock advertising in all locations, which is a concern,” Senator Higgins said. "We know we can take action to address this problem, as we did when we introduced legal restrictions on the advertising and sale of alcohol."

Other senators also shared their views and outlined what they believed should be the jurisdiction and responsibilities of the new regulator.

Fiona O'Laughlin , Senator Fianna File from Kildare, said: "The regulator should cover the industry, impose fines, conduct research and manage an industry-funded social fund to help people with gambling addiction."

She added: "A modern and well-regulated gaming environment should provide increased consumer protection for players, limiting harmful exposure to young people and those who may be addicted as much as possible."