Ireland’s gambling regulator, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), is teaming up with leading banks to introduce voluntary blocks on gambling-related transactions. This collaboration aims to combat gambling harm by offering consumers tools to manage their spending.
Several financial institutions, including AIB, EBS, and Revolut, already provide users with the option to block gambling transactions. GRAI chief executive Anne-Marie Caulfield praised these initiatives, emphasizing their potential to foster a more equitable gambling sector. She noted: “ESRI research shows that the average spend by a person experiencing gambling harm is €1,000 per month.”
According to a report by the Irish Examiner, GRAI is working closely with the Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland to expand this feature to all major Irish banks. If successful, the initiative could offer gamblers more control over their habits and significantly strengthen consumer safeguards.
Comprehensive Reforms Underway
This financial collaboration complements the recent passage of Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, led by Junior Justice Minister James Browne. The legislation introduces sweeping reforms, including stricter advertising rules, a national self-exclusion register, and a social fund to support gambling addiction initiatives.
The national self-exclusion register, set to launch soon, will enhance the voluntary block system. Operators allowing self-excluded individuals to gamble risk facing severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Irish government sees the register as an essential tool for addressing modern gambling challenges.
Ireland’s work doesn’t end there. To increase awareness of the harm associated with gambling, GRAI has partnered with HSE Addiction Services. They intend to launch a campaign to inform parents about the dangers of underage gambling and its consequences over time. A pilot initiative to offer customized therapies for gambling addiction is also underway.
With the 2025 Budget’s $9.46 million investment in GRAI, Ireland is well-positioned to take the lead in encouraging responsible gaming. Since both nations place a high value on collaboration and innovation to address gambling damage and guarantee safer gaming environments, these reforms are in line with comparable initiatives in the UK.
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