Betting regulator ‘to get teeth’

THE proposed gambling regulator is to have the power to restrict sponsorship, Leo Varadkar announced yesterday after the new watchdog was approved by Cabinet.

A minimum age of 18 for gambling will also be strictly enforced, he added, with legislation eliminating doubt about when it is lawful to place stakes on games of chance.

The Taoiseach said that reform is ‘overdue’ with some legislation going back to the Totaliser Act of 1920 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956.

The proposed new gambling law will clarify maximum stakes and prizes, he said, while protecting the sort of lotteries run by GAA clubs and other non-profit organisations across the country.

He pledged: ‘There will be a Social Fund, paid for through a levy on the industry and used for such things as research into gambling addiction.’

David Stanton, the minister of state with responsibility for gambling, said the proposed Irish Gambling Regulatory Authority would create ‘a modern and effectively-regulated environment’.

It would ensure, to the greatest extent possible, that gambling will be a ‘safe, fair and entertaining activity’ for the majority of those who choose to take part, he said.

Mr Stanton added: ‘We must ensure that it will provide enhanced consumer protection for players, while limiting to the greatest extent possible the harmful effects on young people and those who may be susceptible to addiction.’

Fianna Fáil justice spokesman Jim O’Callaghan said: ‘The current legislative framework on gambling is archaic and... is underpinned by Acts which were both introduced during a period when there was barely any electricity, let alone technology. We need to be in a strong position to monitor industry operations in our country. I hope the authority is promptly established.’