Betting industry of Ireland comes together to promote responsible gambling

Punters and politicians targeted by betting companies in week-long initiative 

The Irish gambling industry is coming together to support the country’s first ever Responsible Gambling Week, which starts Today.

Organisers say it will be the industry’s biggest social responsibility campaign held in Ireland. The campaign slogan is ‘A great tip – know when to stop’ and it aims to start conversations about what it means to gamble responsibly.

The initiative has the support of a large sector of the Irish gambling industry, including betting shops, online betting sites, online casino sites, horseracing and greyhound tracks, arcades, gaming clubs and the Tote.

Sharon Byrne, chairperson of the Irish Bookmakers Association, said: “By coming together with one voice, they want to reach more people and get the country talking about responsible gambling, the tools that are available to keep gambling safe and fun, and where to find help and support for those who need it.

“The bookmaking industry is using the week to reiterate its support for the establishment of an independent regulator and the enactment of the Gambling Control Bill. Our members look forward to working productively with the regulator once legislation is passed.”

Activities

The participating operators will be undertaking a range of activities throughout the week, including:

• Nationwide display of posters, leaflets, banners and other information about Responsible Gambling Week
• Ensuring staff in retail premises and online sites continue to be points of contact for their customers on how to gamble responsibly, with coffee mornings arranged in many betting shops locally
• Using social media channels to promote the campaign throughout the week
• Working in partnership with the charity Dunlewey Addiction Services, to rase awareness about responsible gambling through their websites and communication channels
• Holding a reception in the Dáil to help brief politicians on what it means to gamble responsibly and how they can assist the industry by introducing effective legislation