The Northern Ireland Assembly has passed legislation to align local gambling regulations with those of the UK, but differences in consumer protection measures have sparked controversy.
These changes will allow for increased stakes and prizes, while implementing new safeguards for vulnerable groups.
Community Minister Gordon Lyons highlighted several protective measures included in the bill, such as a new offense allowing minors access to high-stakes gaming machines and a limit on the maximum stake at fixed odds betting terminals to 2 pounds ($2.48).
The minister also emphasized ongoing efforts to address online gambling issues and implement a land-based taxation system.
Good news: Despite some MPs calling for a delay in implementation until stronger protective measures are established, the bill was passed without opposition.
However, Northern Ireland University MP Timothy Gaston expressed concerns about the timing of liberalization, noting that the incidence of gambling problems in Northern Ireland is five times that of England.
Gaston emphasized the lack of protective measures comparable to those in the UK, including the gambling tax scheduled for April 5, which is expected to generate about 100 million pounds annually for harm reduction measures.
Previously, the Assembly also passed a cross-party motion calling for gambling addiction services to be led by health, with Sinn Féin MP Philip McGuigan emphasizing the need for comprehensive support services and recognizing gambling harm as a public health issue.
