Ireland to ban gambling advertising, except for charities

The legislative change greatly favors charitable gambling over commercial alternatives

The Irish government’s new gambling legislation proposes a ban on betting advertising, but charities will reportedly be exempt from this controversial measure. On Wednesday, legislators are scheduled to discuss a proposed bill that seeks to establish a new licensing system and governing body to regulate the betting industry in the Republic.

James Browne, Minister of State at the Department of Justice, has proposed that the Gambling Regulation Bill includes an overall ban on broadcast betting advertising from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

However, his amendment would permit gambling ads “for a charitable or philanthropic purpose” where the prize isn’t greater than €10,000.

Browne proposed this change after politicians expressed concerns about how the ban would impact charities.

Specialist channels, such as Racing TV, have forewarned that the overall ban could threaten daily Irish horse racing programming. If the ban is implemented, a separate channel to screen Irish racing would be required, which would increase costs.

Racing officials are concerned the ban will have a negative effect on the industry, which employs about 30,000 people, mainly in rural areas. Specialist racing channels are also exempt from advertising bans under current UK gambling laws.

Horse Racing Ireland, the State agency that controls the country’s industry, recently discussed the issue with Browne. On Tuesday, it was reported that the organization had engaged in “very positive discussions” with the Minister and his officials.

The Minister has proposed an additional amendment permitting licensed gambling enterprises, including bookmakers, to provide “inducements” to the public. However, offers cannot be extended to individuals or particular groups.

The fourth stage will see the Bill presented before the Dáil on Wednesday evening, and it will later be debated in the Seanad as the due date approaches.