Gambling regulator tackles ‘dozens’ of black market players

TheJournal.ieIndependentCenterNov 4

A joint study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) reveals that nearly 40 percent of individuals who begin with online horse or sports betting expand their activities to other gambling products. Based on a survey of 1,000 Irish adults, the research indicates that 77 percent of gambling occurs online, with flexibility and marketing incentives cited as primary drivers for account creation. The findings highlight a disparity between the ease of opening online accounts and the difficulty of closing them or withdrawing funds, a challenge compounded by frequent digital advertisements. Experts note that one in four respondents attempted to reduce their gambling but often failed due to insufficient treatment services and societal stigma surrounding addiction.

Bias read (Center): The article maintains a neutral tone by balancing regulatory data and expert commentary on market dynamics with personal testimony regarding addiction and service gaps.

RTÉ NewsState / PublicCenterNov 4

New research conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and commissioned by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) indicates that 80 percent of Irish gamblers hold at least one online gambling account, with many maintaining multiple accounts simultaneously. The study, based on a survey of 1,000 individuals who gambled within the last year, highlights that 44 percent of participants engage in both online and physical betting, primarily motivated by horse racing, sports, and lotteries. Findings suggest that nearly 40 percent of those starting with sports or horse betting expand into other forms like online casinos and slots, while one in four gamblers report attempting to reduce their gambling habits. Officials from the GRAI and the Department of Justice emphasized that the data supports the implementation of protective measures, including stricter marketing standards and improved self-exclusion tools under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024.

Bias read (Center): The article presents neutral statistical findings and quotes directly from the regulator and minister responsible for the policy, avoiding editorial judgment on the merits of the regulations.

The Irish TimesIndependent🔒CenterNov 4

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has taken enforcement action against dozens of unlicensed online betting operators since new legislation came into force in July. Chief Executive Anne Marie Caulfield stated that the regulator issued cease and desist orders to various entities, ranging from small local bookmakers to major global prediction markets, noting that most ceased operations without requiring High Court intervention. The article highlights that unlicensed operators often bypass mandatory safety measures such as age verification and credit card bans. Additionally, a commissioned survey by the Economic and Social Research Institute revealed significant consumer dissatisfaction regarding the ease of depositing funds versus the difficulty of withdrawing money or closing accounts. The study further indicates that nearly 40 percent of users starting with sports betting expand to higher-risk casino games due to cross-selling tactics employed by online platforms.

Bias read (Center): The report relies exclusively on official regulatory statements and independent academic research data, presenting factual enforcement actions and statistical findings without employing loaded language or advocating for specific policy changes.