Bank of Ireland Introduces Voluntary Card Blocks Amid Rise in Youth Betting

The Bank of Ireland has implemented various debit card gambling blocks in response to the surge in gambling amongst young people in the country.

Bank of Ireland Announces New Gambling Blocks

According to new data from Bank of Ireland, card spending on gambling by 18 to 25-year-olds increased by 19% between January and March, even as overall spending declined slightly by 2%. This rise has been driven largely by major sporting events during the first quarter of this year. Another interesting subject on which many Irish have been betting on is attempting to predict the next pope, which has also contributed to the rise in gambling among young people in the country.

Áine McCleary, chief customer officer at Bank of Ireland, explained that problem gambling can deeply impact the individual affected and their family, friends, and loved ones. Those struggling with gambling addiction often feel that support is inaccessible. McCleary said that the Bank of Ireland’s new initiative aims to empower customers to take meaningful steps toward regaining control of their finances.

The new voluntary debit card blocks prevent customers from transacting with gambling operators. The blocks also prohibit access to online casinos, slot machines, and lottery websites. According to the Bank of Ireland, the block is available on both personal and business debit cards, with plans to expand it to credit cards in the coming months.

Here Are Some Numbers

Oisín McConville of GamblingCare.ie noted that the latest gambling spend data shows a rising trend in betting among younger people. He emphasized that addressing the growing issue of problem gambling requires a broad range of support to prevent it from becoming unmanageable for those affected.

Ireland has already been working towards helping people affected by harmful gambling habits, with the Bank of Ireland’s new initiative being one such. Another notable example is Ireland’s first fully-funded gambling addiction program, which the country launched in early March this year.

Over 70% of bets placed in the first quarter of this year were made by men, with the highest increases in gambling activity recorded in Wicklow (up 37%), Kilkenny (up 24%), and Limerick (up 20%). Among those aged 65 and over, betting activity declined by 8%. In contrast, younger age groups showed increased engagement, largely driven by high-profile sporting events earlier in the year, including the Cheltenham Festival and the Six Nations.