Northern Ireland seeking views on gambling regulation – Gaming Intelligence

Northern Ireland has launched a public consultation on gambling regulations as it considers future legislation.

The consultation seeksto assess the appropriateness of current legislation and to identifygambling products which should be included in any future legislation.

I know that the gambling industry is an important employer in Northern Ireland and that gambling is an activity which is enjoyed responsibly by a large number of people, said Department for Communities permanent secretary Tracy Meharg.

However it is very important to recognise that for some people, gambling has the potential to cause considerable harm. Any future changes to the law must balance the interests of the gambling industry with the need for regulation to protect vulnerable people.

The Department for Communities notes that the current legislation is outdated, having failed to keep pace with industry and technological developments.

Gambling in Northern Irelandis governed under The Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, which regulates betting in bookmaking offices and racetracks, gaming machines, bingo clubs, small scale amusements with prizes, and local lotteries.

The Order predates the development of the internet and thereforefails to eitherregulate or prohibit remote gambling activities.

The consultation will consider two particular issues, the regulation of remote gambling and consumer protection, andseeks input on any additional, Northern Ireland-specific licensing and regulatory measures that should apply to remote gambling operators.

It also asks for views on whether the current level of consumer protection available to Northern Ireland consumers is sufficient.

There is no doubt that the current legislation is outdated and has not kept pace with industry and technological changes, continued Meharg. This consultation will allow everyone with an interest in gambling to share their views on the current legislation and will put the department in a position to offer the best advice to an incoming Minister on the future regulatory framework.

I would encourage all those with an interest in Northern Ireland gambling law to take the opportunity to contribute to this consultation.

The consultation is being undertaken by the Social Policy Unit in the Department for Communities and runs until 21 February 2020.

Go here to see the original:

Northern Ireland seeking views on gambling regulation - Gaming Intelligence