Irish sports organisation Ulster GAA has voiced its disappointment over the Irish government’s Gambling Regulation Act and its implications for GAA clubs and county boards.

In the group’s annual report, Ulster GAA Secretary Brian McAvoy expressed frustration that the GAA was excluded from a list of exceptions to the legislation, which was enacted in October.

The law places restrictions on advertising prize draws exceeding €10,000 on television, radio, or on-demand audiovisual media services between the hours of 5:30am and 9:00pm.

McAvoy acknowledged the government’s commendable efforts to curb the influence of gambling companies, particularly among young people. However, he argued that not-for-profit organisations like the GAA deserved greater flexibility to support their community-driven fundraising activities.

He noted that when individuals purchase tickets for club or county fundraising draws, their motivation is not primarily the prospect of winning but the desire to contribute to ventures that benefit the entire community.

The Ulster GAA secretary emphasised that the GAA had lobbied for inclusion in the group of exceptions, which currently applies to charitable and philanthropic bodies, but the request was not granted.

McAvoy therefore expressed regret that the government’s legislation did not account for the unique role of organisations like the GAA in supporting community initiatives.

In his report, McAvoy highlighted the damaging effects of gambling marketing, particularly on young people. He praised the ongoing partnership between the GAA and the Gambling with Lives charity, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness about gambling-related harm.

He also referenced the findings of the YouGaMSI’s report, Code Red: Young People and their Exposure to Gambling Marketing through Media and Live Sport on the Island of Ireland, describing them as deeply troubling.

Local sports organisations at risk

Ulster GAA, or the Ulster Council of the Gaelic Athletic Association, is the governing body for Gaelic games in the province of Ulster.

It oversees the promotion and development of Gaelic football, hurling, camogie, and other traditional Irish sports across nine counties, including six in Northern Ireland and three in the Republic of Ireland.

The GAA as a whole operates on a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit basis, making it a cornerstone of local communities across Ireland. Its fundraising efforts are often essential for maintaining facilities, organising events, and supporting youth development programs.

McAvoy’s remarks highlight the potential impact of the Gambling Regulation Act on these vital activities, sparking a broader discussion on the balance between regulating gambling and supporting community organisations.

New gambling regulator making preparations

The concerns raised by McAvoy come as Ireland prepares to launch a new gambling regulator this year. The regulator, established under the Gambling Regulation Act, will oversee all aspects of gambling in Ireland including licensing, advertising, and player protection.

This marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernise its approach to gambling regulation and address the social harms associated with excessive gambling.

The new authority aims to enforce stricter controls on gambling advertising, promote safer gambling practices, and ensure that operators adhere to robust compliance standards.

It is expected to officially become operational in the latter half of 2025.

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