Ireland: New bank card self-exclusion initiative launched
The nation’s gambling regulator has worked with numerous partners on the introduction of new legislation.
Key points:
– A new initiative enabling players to block bank cards from gambling sites has been introduced in Ireland
– This Commitment of Care programme has been developed by the IBCB in partnership with GRAI
– This action follows a study which highlighted that 90% of gambling transactions in Ireland take place via card
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has implemented a new initiative, developed in partnership with the Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB) and member banks, AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB, which allows players to block their bank cards from use on gambling sites.
Indeed, the Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling is now active and available to players in the Irish market, this new framework allows players to contact their bank provider to request that their card be blocked from gambling sites and apps. Simultaneously, the legislation commits banks to the development of enhanced employee training, support initiatives and voluntary blocking measures pertaining to gambling activity.
This latest implementation falls in the wake of a prior study which highlighted that 90% of gambling transactions in Ireland were taking place online, with 99% of those being funded by debit cards. Elsewhere, in the neighbouring UK market, Gamstop also reported this year that 1% of all UK adults have now self-excluded in gambling.
Good to know: Last week over 200 stakeholders in the Irish gambling industry called upon the GRAI to take action on gambling harm
Now, speaking on this latest development, IBCB CEO, Marion Kelly, said: “Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities. IBCB member banks recognise their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help.
“This Common Commitment of Care ensures that anyone experiencing gambling difficulties will find clear, accessible supports to assistance through their bank. The introduction of a voluntary card block by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to those experiencing problem gambling and IBCB calls on other financial services players to put in similar measures”
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