Irish Banks to Introduce Voluntary Gambling Transaction Blocks

Ireland’s gambling regulator is collaborating with leading financial institutions to implement a voluntary block on gambling-related credit and debit card transactions. The move aims to address the proliferation of gambling harm across the nation and should significantly enhance consumer protections, highlighting Ireland’s growing focus on curbing problem gambling.

Self-Exclusion Is a Valuable Tool

Some banks like AIB and EBS have already taken proactive measures, introducing a voluntary block feature. Digital banking platform Revolut also offers a similar option, allowing users to block gambling-related transactions. Anne-Marie Caulfield, chief executive of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), hoped these efforts would foster a fairer and more equitable gambling sector.

“ESRI research shows that the average spend by a person experiencing gambling harm is €1,000 per month.”

Anne-Marie Caulfield, GRAI chief executive

A recent report by the national news outlet Irish Examiner revealed that GRAI is collaborating with the Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland in its bid to expand the feature across all leading Irish banks. Such broad adoption could significantly enhance consumer protections, giving gamblers multiple avenues to control their spending habits.

Ireland Is Making Significant Progress

This move closely follows the passing of Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, spearheaded by Junior Justice Minister James Browne. The legislation envisions significant reforms to the nation’s gambling regulations, such as advertising restrictions, a national self-exclusion register, and a social fund to support problem gambling initiatives. 

The planned self-exclusion register should significantly enhance the voluntary block features offered by financial institutions, adding another layer of protection. Licensed operators who allow individuals on the national register to use their services could face substantial fines and even prison sentences. The Irish government envisions this register as a modern solution better suited to the rapidly evolving gambling landscape.

Introducing voluntary gambling blocks is just one aspect of Ireland’s broader efforts to modernize its gambling sector. GRAI is also collaborating with HSE Addiction Services to enhance gambling harm awareness. A new campaign plans to educate parents about the dangers of youth gambling and its long-lasting repercussions. This collaboration also extends to a pilot program to develop gambling-specific treatments.

With €9.1 million ($9.46 million) set aside for the GRAI within the 2025 Budget, the new regulatory body is ready to usher in a new era of responsible gambling in Ireland. This push for modernized gambling legislation mirrors similar efforts in the neighboring UK as both jurisdictions aim to utilize partnerships and innovative tools to reduce gambling-related harm and promote safer gambling practices.