Voluntary Gambling Transaction Blocks: Strengthening Consumer Protections

In an effort to combat gambling-related harm, Ireland is now implementing voluntary transaction blocks that restrict gambling transactions on credit and debit cards. This initiative comes as part of the broader regulatory landscape, as Ireland prepares for a fully regulated gambling market.

• Consumer Protection: Anne-Marie Caulfield, Chief Executive Designate of the GRAI, emphasized that the voluntary transaction blocks will be an important tool in protecting consumers, particularly those affected by gambling-related harm. According to research from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), individuals struggling with gambling addiction often spend up to €1,000 per month. This insight underscores the importance of interventions that give people better control over their spending and reduce the risk of financial damage.

• Early Adopters: Major financial institutions such as Allied Irish Bank (AIB) and EBS have already rolled out these gambling transaction blocks, with Revolut following suit by allowing users to implement gambling restrictions on their accounts. The Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland (BPFI) is also in discussions with the GRAI to encourage further adoption among Irish banks.

Broader Regulatory Context and New Legislation

The voluntary gambling transaction blocks are part of a wider effort to improve consumer safeguards and regulate gambling activities in Ireland more effectively:

• Landmark Gambling Legislation: In October 2024, the Irish government passed landmark gambling legislation, which aims to curb gambling harm across the country. The legislation includes important measures such as advertising restrictions, the creation of a national gambling exclusion register, and a social fund dedicated to supporting problem gambling initiatives.

• Enforcement and Fines: The GRAI will have the authority to impose severe penalties on operators who fail to comply with these new regulations. Fines could reach as high as €20 million or 10% of the operator’s annual turnover. This robust enforcement is designed to ensure that operators prioritize consumer protection and responsible gambling.

Focus on Education and Youth Protection

A core element of the GRAI’s strategy is raising awareness and educating the public, particularly young people, about the risks of gambling:

• Incorporating Gambling Education in Schools: As part of the Social, Personal, and Health Education (SPHE) curriculum, Ireland is now educating students about gambling risks from an early age. This initiative targets both junior and senior cycles in schools, helping future generations develop a better understanding of gambling’s potential harms.

• Parents and Youth Protection: The GRAI is also collaborating with the Health Service Executive (HSE) Addiction Services to launch awareness campaigns aimed at educating parents on the dangers of exposing children to gambling. Research by the ESRI found that individuals who start gambling before the age of 18 are nearly twice as likely to develop gambling problems later in life, which highlights the importance of early intervention.

National Gambling Exclusion Register and Licensing Framework

The GRAI is working on several additional initiatives aimed at creating a more comprehensive and accountable gambling landscape:Licensing Framework: The GRAI is also preparing to launch a new licensing regime in 2025, which will regulate gambling operators in Ireland. Gambling companies are being encouraged to register their interest in applying for licenses, which will help the regulator gauge the volume of applications and ensure a smooth transition to a fully regulated market.