Menu
06/12/2010
NI Gamblers 'Need Better Laws'
An official survey has revealed the need for tighter controls on gambling, because some 2% of the adult population in Northern Ireland have a gambling problem.
The fact was revealed in a survey commissioned by the Department for Social Development to inform the review of Northern Ireland's outdated gambling laws.
In response, the Stormont Social Development Minister highlighted the need for tighter controls on gambling.
Alex Attwood (pictured) said: "I am grateful to my predecessor Margaret Ritchie for commissioning this survey which will influence the direction for the review of gambling.
"People will understandably be concerned about some of the survey findings.
"We need to sit up and take notice. I am formulating ideas for better controls on gambling and will discuss them with Ministerial colleagues. I expect to publish a consultation paper on industry reforms in the very near future," he said today.
The Minister added: "While my Department is not responsible for the treatment or care of those who may suffer from problem gambling I will be bringing forward in the consultation measures aimed at minimising the harmful effects of gambling.
"I will work closely with all interests to develop a balanced package of reforms for the industry," he said, noting that the survey also measured attitudes to and levels of participation in gambling.
It showed that just over 67% had an unfavourable attitude to gambling; nearly 24% had a favourable attitude while almost 9% were neutral.
Around 75% of respondents had taken part in some form of gambling within the past 12 months with the most popular form of gambling in Northern Ireland being the National Lottery (51%).
The other most popular gambling activities are local raffles and ballots (38%), scratch cards (28%) and betting with a bookmaker (20%).
(BMcC/GK)
The fact was revealed in a survey commissioned by the Department for Social Development to inform the review of Northern Ireland's outdated gambling laws.
In response, the Stormont Social Development Minister highlighted the need for tighter controls on gambling.
Alex Attwood (pictured) said: "I am grateful to my predecessor Margaret Ritchie for commissioning this survey which will influence the direction for the review of gambling.
"People will understandably be concerned about some of the survey findings.
"We need to sit up and take notice. I am formulating ideas for better controls on gambling and will discuss them with Ministerial colleagues. I expect to publish a consultation paper on industry reforms in the very near future," he said today.
The Minister added: "While my Department is not responsible for the treatment or care of those who may suffer from problem gambling I will be bringing forward in the consultation measures aimed at minimising the harmful effects of gambling.
"I will work closely with all interests to develop a balanced package of reforms for the industry," he said, noting that the survey also measured attitudes to and levels of participation in gambling.
It showed that just over 67% had an unfavourable attitude to gambling; nearly 24% had a favourable attitude while almost 9% were neutral.
Around 75% of respondents had taken part in some form of gambling within the past 12 months with the most popular form of gambling in Northern Ireland being the National Lottery (51%).
The other most popular gambling activities are local raffles and ballots (38%), scratch cards (28%) and betting with a bookmaker (20%).
(BMcC/GK)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
08 March 2024
Reasons NI Gambling Laws Are 'A Bit Different'
The four countries that make up the UK are self-governing, meaning they could have their unique gambling laws and regulations. However, while Wales and Scotland's gambling laws mostly align with those of England, there are some glaring differences between Northern Ireland's and the rest of the UK.
Reasons NI Gambling Laws Are 'A Bit Different'
The four countries that make up the UK are self-governing, meaning they could have their unique gambling laws and regulations. However, while Wales and Scotland's gambling laws mostly align with those of England, there are some glaring differences between Northern Ireland's and the rest of the UK.
09 August 2024
Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: UK Gambling Commission's New Quarterly Reporting Requirements
In the United Kingdom, gambling enthusiasts have the opportunity to engage in their favourite pastime through both in-person and online avenues. Brick-and-mortar casinos across the country offer a traditional and immersive gambling experience, allowing patrons to wager on various games of chance in a physical setting.
Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: UK Gambling Commission's New Quarterly Reporting Requirements
In the United Kingdom, gambling enthusiasts have the opportunity to engage in their favourite pastime through both in-person and online avenues. Brick-and-mortar casinos across the country offer a traditional and immersive gambling experience, allowing patrons to wager on various games of chance in a physical setting.
19 February 2020
'Time To Stop Gambling With Lives'
The Alliance Party has thrown its weight behind a charity campaign to restrict gambling abuse across Northern Ireland. Gambling With Lives is seeking updates to legislation to better restrict betting and gambling in the hope of preventing more deaths by those who grow addicted.
'Time To Stop Gambling With Lives'
The Alliance Party has thrown its weight behind a charity campaign to restrict gambling abuse across Northern Ireland. Gambling With Lives is seeking updates to legislation to better restrict betting and gambling in the hope of preventing more deaths by those who grow addicted.
30 September 2019
Public To Have Their Say On NI Gambling Issues
The people of Northern Ireland are to have their say on local 'gambling issues' in a future consultation, it has emerged. Christian charity CARE NI revealed details of the consultation after the Department of Communities confirmed it would take place in the "near future".
Public To Have Their Say On NI Gambling Issues
The people of Northern Ireland are to have their say on local 'gambling issues' in a future consultation, it has emerged. Christian charity CARE NI revealed details of the consultation after the Department of Communities confirmed it would take place in the "near future".
01 March 2022
Northern Ireland's Gambling Law Changes 'Overdue'
Northern Ireland is set for an overhaul of its gambling laws which were created in 1985. This will include a new code of practice for operators and the ability to open on Sundays. Northern Ireland is one of many countries in the process of switching up its gambling laws.
Northern Ireland's Gambling Law Changes 'Overdue'
Northern Ireland is set for an overhaul of its gambling laws which were created in 1985. This will include a new code of practice for operators and the ability to open on Sundays. Northern Ireland is one of many countries in the process of switching up its gambling laws.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
