Ireland Launches Voluntary Gambling Transaction Blocks
### Key Points at a Glance
Ireland is introducing voluntary blocks on gambling transactions to enhance player protection. The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is working with banks to give customers more control over their spending. This initiative complements broader reforms, including a national self-exclusion register and stricter advertising guidelines. The goal is to reduce gambling-related harm and promote responsible gambling.
###
Voluntary Blocks on Gambling Transactions
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has partnered with leading banks such as AIB, EBS, and Revolut. Customers of these banks can already voluntarily block gambling transactions. This feature aims to curb problematic gambling behavior. According to the GRAI, individuals affected by gambling addiction spend an average of €1,000 per month on gambling.
Collaboration with the Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland seeks to extend this feature to all major Irish banks. The objective is to provide consumers with greater financial control and strengthen player protection.
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New Gambling Laws and Reforms
The introduction of voluntary transaction blocks is part of a broader reform package. With the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, Ireland has implemented comprehensive changes in the gambling sector. Key measures include:
– **National Self-Exclusion Register**: Players can exclude themselves from gambling services nationwide. Operators who violate these exclusions face significant penalties or even imprisonment.
– **Stricter Advertising Guidelines**: Gambling advertising is more tightly regulated to protect vulnerable groups, such as young people.
– **Social Fund for Gambling Addiction Prevention**: A portion of gambling sector revenues will fund programs to combat gambling addiction.
The self-exclusion register will be launched soon and is intended to complement the voluntary transaction blocks. It serves as a central tool to address problematic gambling behavior.
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Campaigns and Pilot Projects for Gambling Addiction Prevention
In addition to legal reforms, the GRAI is planning an awareness campaign in collaboration with the HSE Addiction Services. The goal is to educate parents about the risks of gambling among minors.
A pilot project for tailored therapies to treat gambling addiction is also in development. These initiatives are supported by a $9.46 million USD budget increase for the GRAI in 2025.
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International Collaboration
Ireland’s reforms are inspired by similar initiatives in the United Kingdom. Both countries are focusing on collaboration and innovation to minimize gambling-related harm and create safer gambling environments.
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Our Assessment
The introduction of voluntary transaction blocks is a significant step toward responsible gambling. Combined with comprehensive legal reforms and prevention programs, Ireland demonstrates a strong commitment to player protection. The national self-exclusion register and planned therapy offerings, in particular, could have long-term positive effects. It remains to be seen how effectively these measures will be implemented in practice and whether other countries will follow this example.
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