A leading psychiatrist treating addiction has called on the Government to fast-track plans for the long-promised gambling regulator after a study showed children are being heavily exposed to betting advertising. “Gambling is being normalised extensively not only on TV but also online as gambling companies are shifting focus. Plans for a gambling regulator were first announced last year by the then government and the commitment to create the regulator is included in the current programme for government. Prof O’Gara said the Government needs to fulfil its commitment to set up the regulator and enact “robust legislation” to protect players “across a whole host of gambling products”. He questioned whether the Government could restrict gambling advertising ahead of the regulator being established given that it was “a significant public health measure”.

Source: The Irish Times November 24, 2020 16:18 UTC