Irish lawmakers mulling a once-in-a-century updating of the republic’s antiquated gambling laws have been targeted dozens of times by lobbyists representing gaming interests, the Irish Examiner reported October 8. Existing laws date back to the 1950s and some even go as far back as the 1920s.
The Oireachtas Éireann, the parliament of Ireland, is expected to pass the Gambling Regulation Bill within the next year.
The Lobbying Register indicates more than 60 entries so far in 2023 with about half aimed at James Browne, the minister in charge of passing the bill. Most of these were representatives from bookmaking and horseracing interests.
Meanwhile, the Economic & Social Research Institute of Ireland (ESRI) has released research indicating that rates of problem gambling in the country is about 10 times higher than once thought, calling it a “public health emergency.”
The lobbyists came from Flutter Entertainment and BoyleSports. Browne defended gathering views and input from stakeholders since the new law will affect a wide spectrum of gambling interests, charities, advertising the broadcasting.
According to the Examiner, Browne said during a parliamentary question session, “In this context, the deputy will appreciate that stakeholder engagement is an important aspect of informing and developing new legislation.” He added, “Hearing the views of all stakeholders in respect of legislative proposals which will affect them is a key aspect of a robust, transparent, and democratic legislative process.”
Some charities have sought to point out what they call “unintended consequences” of the proposal, such as the need for them to obtain licenses for activities such as charity raffles.
Some lawmakers have argued for exempting charities from such requirements. However Browne retorted, “We are not penalizing charities by regulating them,” and added, “We cannot have a sector providing unregulated gambling activities.”
He added, “This is an industry that can cause huge amounts of personal damage to families that can absolutely be destroyed and that needs to be recognized.”
The bill would create Ireland’s first gambling regulator, would restrict gambling advertising and create a national gambling exclusion register.
