It is a singular achievement by James Browne, the Minister of State for Law Reform, to finally get the Bill over the line. He decided when he was appointed in 2020 that the time for talk and consultation was over. His priority was to publish.
The industry has been essentially self-regulated until now. Until a few years ago, the budgets allocated to awareness and treating problem gamblers was minuscule compared to the lavish spend on marketing. There has been a rethink and correction since then. But it’s not credible – and the industry acknowledges this – for this deeply unsatisfactory situation to continue.
At the heart of the legislation is the seven-member Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland and its chief executive, Anne Marie Caulfied. It will have sweeping powers, not only in requiring mandatory licences, but also in setting down conditions for licences. Its remit will also cover advertising, sponsorship, protecting problem gamblers, and ensuring children are not exposed in any way to the industry.
There’s a ban on TV and online advertising between 5.30am and 9pm. Sports clubs with players under the age of 18 cannot be sponsored by a betting company. Browne actually told the press conference he considered banning advertising completely but felt it was ultimately disproportionate.
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Source: IrishTimes - 🏆 3. / 98 Read more »
Source: IrishTimes - 🏆 3. / 98 Read more »