Problem gamblers and their families asked to give their views on tackling gambling harm in Ireland

According to studies from the Economic and Social Research Institute, gambling has caused harm for 10% of Irish adults.

People who have suffered from a gambling addiction and their families have been urged to give their take on a new statutory fund aimed at tackling gambling harm in Ireland.

The Social Impact Fund, set up by the newly-established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, will raise money through a levy on gambling companies based on their turnover.

This money will then be used to support educational and awareness initiatives, research and training, as well as treatment for those affected by problem gambling.

“This call for input aims to develop an initial assessment of need," said Gambling Regulatory Authority chief executive Anne Marie Caulfield. “It will inform our funding strategy and ensure that we allocate funding in the most useful and impactful way.” 

According to studies from the Economic and Social Research Institute, gambling has caused harm for 10% of Irish adults.

Its research has suggested 3.3% of the population meets the threshold of problem gambling, where they experience multiple negative behaviours such as borrowing from others to fund gambling. This was 10 times the number that had previously been thought.

Anne Marie Caulfield, chief executive of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland: 'The questionnaires are designed to gain insight into the experiences of each group in terms of gambling harm and its effects on society.'

The Social Impact Fund forms a key part of the new remit of the gambling regulator, who was formally given powers, after legislation over a decade-in-the-making passed through the Oireachtas prior to the last general election.

Advocates have said funding is urgently needed for dedicated problem gambling treatment across the country.

The assessment of need will be undertaken by State agency Pobal and involves four questionnaires aimed at getting distinct views around gambling in society.

As well as people with lived experience of problem gambling and their friends and family, it is also seeking the views of addiction services that provide treatment and support.

It is also looking for the views of NGOs, charities and sporting organisations that work with members of society who may be vulnerable to gambling harms, including children and young people.

“The questionnaires are designed to gain insight into the experiences of each group in terms of gambling harm and its effects on society, as well as developing a better understanding of what supports are lacking and where improvements can be made,” the regulator said.

Participants can also opt to continue their involvement in the consultation process, allowing for further information to be collected and a fuller picture to be made of the most impactful interventions to prevent gambling harm in Irish society. 

The share of revenue the gambling companies will be obliged to give to the Social Impact Fund has yet to be determined, and responsibility for setting the rate will lie with the minister for justice.

The gambling regulator is also out for consultation on a new licensing regime where all operators will be obliged to register and pay an annual fee. Penalties for companies that flout the rules set down by the regulator can stretch into tens of millions of euro.

It recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK’s Gambling Commission to share information and cooperate in the years ahead. Further agreements are expected with other gambling regulators across Europe in the coming months.

The call for input on the Social Impact Fund will close on May 15.