Last month, Ireland approved the Gambling Regulation Bill in a move to modernize the nation’s gambling laws and create a regulated Irish gambling market.
The bill has introduced a range of changes, including a ban on gambling advertisements between 5.30 a.m and 9 p.m.
However, as more details have emerged, it has become clear that the new laws also encompass a number of other gambling industry practices.
Article 148 of the bill bans operators from encouraging players to place wagers through the offer of free bets. However, the exact wording and language used in the legislation may affect all forms of gambling promotion, not just free bet offers.
“A licensee to whom this chapter applies shall not offer an inducement to a person to participate or continue to participate, in a relevant gambling activity,” the bill states.
This is obviously widely open to interpretation and could see legal battles fought over an operator’s right to offer promotions for their services.
Despite this, industry figures have been largely positive about the new legislation.
Secretary-General of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) commented: “EGBA fully supports the Irish government’s ongoing efforts to establish modern regulations that fit the digital age and bring the country’s regulatory framework into line with EU member states.”
