Ireland's New Voluntary Bank Card Block for Gambling Control

Ireland is taking significant steps to mitigate the harm caused by gambling through a groundbreaking initiative that allows citizens to voluntarily block gambling transactions on their bank cards. This move, representing Ireland's ongoing dedication to minimizing gambling-related issues, is part of a larger scheme named the Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling. In collaboration with the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) and the Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB), this initiative has garnered support from Ireland’s three pillar banks—AIB, Bank of Ireland, and PTSB. These banks have committed to allowing their customers to opt into a service that restricts their cards from being used on gambling platforms. In addition to this critical support, banks are now implementing improved employee training, establishing helplines dedicated to gambling issues, and referring affected individuals to essential external resources such as Gambling Care and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).

Banks' Response to Gambling Concerns

The push for this initiative came in response to concerning statistics, with reports indicating that 90% of gambling activities in Ireland happen online and 99% of those transactions involve debit cards. Speaking on behalf of the IBCB, CEO Marion Kelly emphasized the initiative's significance, stating, “Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities. IBCB member banks recognise their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help.” She further mentioned, “This Common Commitment of Care ensures that anyone experiencing gambling difficulties will find clear, accessible supports to assistance through their bank. The introduction of a voluntary card block by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to those experiencing problem gambling and IBCB calls on other financial services players to put in similar measures.” This proactive stance by the banking sector reflects mounting pressure to address the negative impacts of gambling, which has spurred over 200 stakeholders into urging GRAI for more decisive action.

Structured Support and Government Endorsement

This newly established framework aims to provide standardized support by banks to their vulnerable clients. The plan not only focuses on blocking gambling transactions but also ensures banks have adequately trained staff, clear customer contact points, and dependable referrals to specialized support services. The IBCB, playing a crucial role in fostering cultural reform in Irish banking, advocates for a consistent and caring support structure for individuals grappling with gambling problems. A public launch event, scheduled in Dublin, will further delineate the program's details to interested parties. Endorsement for the framework has come from the governmental sector as well, with Robert Troy, Minister of State at the Department of Finance, praising the cooperative efforts of the banking industry. He remarked, “The Government has committed to tackling problem gambling through the Gambling Regulation Act and the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, and sectoral co-operation remains key to achieving our aims.” Although IBCB is not a regulatory entity, it plays an instrumental part in guiding ethical standards within the financial field, composed of banking leaders, legal advisors, and union delegates. The availability of a card-blocking feature strengthens Ireland’s broader strategy against problem gambling, providing individuals with effective and accessible financial tools to control gambling activities. Source: A new nationwide initiative in Ireland now allows individuals to block gambling transactions on their bank cards... [https://lcb.org/news/ireland-launches-national-voluntary-bank-card-block-to-tackle-gambling-harm] By GamesAndCasino