Dublin, 25th September 2024 – In a passionate address during a Seanad Éireann debate, Irish Senator Shane Cassells (a Fianna Fáil Senator in the Meath West constituency)  delivered a powerful critique of the gambling industry’s influence on the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, which is currently at the committee stage.

His remarks highlighted concerns about lobbying efforts to weaken the Bill and the negative impact of gambling advertising on young people in Ireland.

During the debate Senator Cassells acknowledged the efforts of Minister of State James Browne in pushing forward the legislation, stating, “It is to his credit that the Minister of State has stayed the course in compiling such detailed and very much-needed legislation.” He emphasized the pressing need for the bill, which has been in the works for over four years, particularly given the growing concern about gambling addiction and its impact on society.

Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Senator Cassells pointed to recent research on gambling addiction and its pervasive impact. “All of the research that has been produced states those who suffer from addictions grossly understate the reality, and that is not just here but in the UK and the United States,” he said, referring to studies indicating how advertising has normalized gambling, especially for young people who view it as part of watching sports.

“What a very sad society where young people see the proliferation of gambling advertising as now being part of the norm of watching sporting activity.”

The senator also took aim at members of both Houses of the Oireachtas who have acted as lobbyists for the gambling industry. In a scathing condemnation:

“Shame on those Members. I ask them to come to some of the gambling addiction meetings where I see people lose everything, not just money but family, businesses, and homes.”

Cassells criticized the notion that the bill represents a “nanny state” approach, arguing that gambling addiction can be more harmful than other forms of addiction, such as drugs or alcohol. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the legislation does not have unintended consequences but also protects those vulnerable to addiction.

The senator didn’t spare the horse racing industry and certain media outlets, accusing them of being financially reliant on gambling companies. He highlighted the threats made by the horse racing industry, stating, “If HRI has found itself with a business model that is completely supported by gambling money, that is its problem.” He urged the industry to focus on generating revenue through other means rather than relying on gambling profits.

Cassells also took a jab at certain tabloid newspapers that have seemingly aligned with the gambling industry, condemning them for publishing stories suggesting that the horse racing industry would collapse if the bill passed. “You did it because you are in hock to the bookies for their advertising money and the racing supplements, and that needs to be called out as well,” he asserted.

In closing, Senator Cassells praised the Minister of State for his steadfastness and expressed hope that the bill would successfully pass into law. He vowed to continue advocating for robust regulations to protect those affected by gambling addiction, stating, “I look forward to the rest of the debate, and well done to the Minister of State.”

The Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 represents a significant step in Ireland’s efforts to address gambling-related issues, and Senator Cassells’ impassioned speech underscores the importance of this legislation in tackling the growing concerns surrounding gambling addiction and advertising in the country.

Olivia Richardson

Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.