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The gambling market in Ireland is rebounding in 2025. Regulatory changes, such as the launch of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) in March of this year and improved consumer demand, are driving the mild recovery. Ireland’s gambling market is projected to generate $1.18 billion in 2025, at a growth rate of 1.48% between 2025 and 2030. Approximately 45.8% of the population is expected to take part in some form of gambling this year, and the market expects 2.6 million active users by 2030. 40% of Ireland’s total gambling revenue is in the online gaming sector, which is due to increased use of mobile devices, live dealer features and greater consumer interest from younger participants. Ireland’s Gambling NGR Continues to Rise Entain is a good example of the market recovery in Ireland, with the company reporting strong growth in its retail segment primarily through its Ladbrokes outlets. It has also completed the rollout of its Group BetStation (GBS) terminals in Irish locations ahead of schedule. Entain posted a 7% year-on-year increase in group net gaming revenue (NGR) for the first half of 2025, to £2.63 billion, or 10% on a constant currency basis, including its 50% stake in leading bookmaker. Revenue for the period was up 3%, while gross profit increased by 3% to £1.59 billion. Underlying operating profit was up 52% to £437.6 million; however, the group recorded a loss after tax of £116.9 million, compared with a £5.6 million loss in the previous year, reflecting separately disclosed costs. The UK and Irish market was a significant contributor to the group's growth, with online NGR up 21%, sports NGR rising 16% and gaming NGR climbing by 23%. The company attributed the improved performance to improved player experience and the “levelling of the regulatory restrictions that had previously impacted engagement.“ New Report Highlights Gambling Harm A new report has been released by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), in collaboration with Pobal. It announces the findings of its National Stakeholder Consultation on gambling-related harm in the regulated market. The consultation was undertaken to steer the direction of the newly established Social Impact Fund. The report, compiled through consultation with over 200 stakeholders, including those who had experienced gambling issues, their families, treatment professionals, NGOs and researchers, highlights the scale of the problem and how Ireland should respond. Over 80% of questionnaire respondents reported that their gambling had led to financial difficulties. Stakeholders agreed that several issues, including stigma and limited awareness, delayed or hampered seeking help and continued to be a barrier to recovery. The report highlighted that the onus to ensure responsible gambling practices is shared by those who regulate, provide and take part in betting. Priority Responsible Gambling Investments This report is the first stage in developing the Fund’s investment strategy and a broader consultation process. Priority areas for investment have been identified as the following: Better public awareness and prevention programs Timely access to treatment and counselling Consistent aftercare and stronger family and peer support The GRAI has also implemented a new initiative developed in partnership with the Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB) and member banks, which allows players to block their bank cards from being used on gambling sites. The “Common Commitment of Care” is now fully functional, and legislation requires banks to develop enhanced employee training, support initiatives and blocking measures involving gambling activity. The initiative was in response to a recent finding that 90% of Ireland’s online casino and sports betting transactions were taking place online, with 99% of those being funded by debit cards. The IBCB has called on other financial service providers to implement similar measures. National Student Survey on Gambling Activity Finally, Ireland’s regulator has recently assisted the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) to conduct the 2025 National Student Survey on gambling, drugs and mental health. Undertaken on an annual basis, it seeks to examine gambling (and other) behaviours of students in the country. Participation in the survey had been encouraged by the GRAI via a link on their website, with all submissions remaining confidential. Ireland’s fledgling GRAI has had a busy time of late, but the work of a highly efficient and successful regulator, it seems, is never truly done. Don’t miss out on thrilling casino slots, table games, and enthralling live dealer games from OCR’s safest and most trusted Irish casinos.
February 2024 sees Videoslots Casino and Mr. Vegas, powered by Games Global, expanding their live gaming horizons with OnAir Entertainment’s innovative content. This collaboration redefines entertainment, offering players various live casino games and game shows. A New Dimension in Live Casino Gaming Strategic Expansion with OnAir Entertainment In a move that significantly enhances its live gaming offerings, Mr. Vegas Casino, under the Videoslots umbrella, has partnered with OnAir Entertainment™, courtesy of Games Global. This strategic expansion introduces a fresh live casino dimension to the Mr. Vegas brand, widely recognized for its extensive global portfolio. The partnership guarantees to usher in a new era of entertainment with a library brimming with live casino innovations. Revolutionizing Player Experience This partnership diversifies the gaming options available at Mr. Vegas Casino and elevates the overall player experience. With access to OnAir Entertainment™'s cutting-edge live casino games and game shows, players can look forward to engaging in classics like Auto Roulette and Speed Blackjack, as well as modern marvels such as Travel Fever™ and Diamond Rush Roulette. This wide-ranging selection caters to varying player preferences across multiple markets, setting a new benchmark for live gaming entertainment. Commitment to Excellence The collaboration between Games Global, Videoslots, and Mr. Vegas is rooted in a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer satisfaction. By integrating OnAir Entertainment™'s innovative live casino content, Mr. Vegas Casino ensures players enjoy a premium gaming journey of quality, innovation, and unparalleled entertainment. This partnership expands the casino's gaming portfolio and enhances the quality of gaming experiences available to players. Industry Leaders Unite Julie Allison, Chief Revenue Officer at Games Global, highlighted the collaboration's significance, emphasizing the joint effort to advance live gaming innovation and deliver superior player experiences. Ulle Skottling, Deputy CEO of Videoslots, further reinforced the alliance's potential to elevate the Mr. Vegas brand and provide players access to a vast library of top-tier live casino games from OnAir Entertainment™. About Games Global Innovative Gaming Solutions Provider Games Global stands as a beacon of innovation in the iGaming content sector. Games Global powers a significant portion of the online gaming industry with over 1,300 games, including a record-breaking progressive jackpot network and collaborations with 40 studios. The company is pivotal in driving online gaming forward, serving around 650 global gaming brands through its world-class distribution channel, uniting the industry's leading talents under one roof. As Mr. Vegas Casino embarks on this partnership with Games Global and OnAir Entertainment™, players can anticipate a transformed live gaming landscape enriched with a broad spectrum of high-quality, engaging live casino games and game shows. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in live gaming, promising to deliver unforgettable gaming experiences and setting a new standard for industry partnerships.
Relax Gaming, alongside LeoVegas, has announced their thirteenth Dream Drop Mega Jackpot winner, who landed a life-changing €2.9 million from a mere €0.22 bet on Cosmic Rush Dream Drop, marking a thrilling start to 2024 for jackpot wins. A Cosmic Win Jackpot Joy in Malta On 29th February 2024, the iGaming world was abuzz as Relax Gaming reported that a lucky player at LeoVegas hit the Dream Drop Mega Jackpot, securing €2.9 million. This monumental win occurred on Four Leaf Gaming's Cosmic Rush Dream Drop, a game known for its rich array of features and potential for big wins. 2024's First Mega Jackpot This significant win is 2024's first Mega Jackpot drop, following seven instances in 2023 that cumulatively awarded over €18 million. Cosmic Rush Dream Drop, a game that debuted on 11th January, has quickly captivated players with its engaging mechanics and the opportunity to win up to 6,000 times the stake. Features That Fascinate Cosmic Rush Dream Drop stands out with innovative gameplay features such as the Rush meter, Instant Cash Collect, Cash Rush, and Wild Rush Free Spins. These elements combine to offer a dynamic gaming experience, now proven to deliver substantial payouts. Industry Leaders React A Lucky Number for LeoVegas Simon Hammon, CEO at Relax Gaming, highlighted the irony of the number thirteen turning lucky for the LeoVegas player. He expressed pride in Relax Gaming's role in the jackpot scene and the satisfaction of seeing the Mega Jackpot awarded through a collaboration with Four Leaf Gaming. Four Leaf Gaming's Stellar Moment Andy Hollis, Co-founder of Four Leaf Gaming, shared the excitement over Cosmic Rush being the platform for such a significant win. He noted the game's success since its launch, emphasizing the unique nature of awarding a millionaire jackpot. LeoVegas Shares the Excitement James Ford, Director of Gaming at LeoVegas Group, commented on the Dream Drop Jackpot's rising popularity and the thrill of hosting the Mega Jackpot win. He extended congratulations to the fortunate player. Relax Gaming: A Beacon of Innovation Awards and Acclaim Relax Gaming, a leading B2B supplier continues to gain recognition for its innovative products, including Dream Drop Jackpots. With accolades like GGA's Product Launch of the Year and Slot of the Year for Money Train 3, Relax Gaming's contributions to the iGaming industry are well acknowledged. Expansive Game Portfolio With a library of over 4,000 online casino games and partnerships with more than 70 studios, Relax Gaming offers an extensive and diverse range of gaming content, from proprietary slots to third-party offerings, ensuring a rich and varied gaming experience for players worldwide. About Relax Gaming Founded in 2010, Relax Gaming Group aims to streamline B2B content delivery in the iGaming sector. With a focus on collaboration and simplicity, Relax Gaming has rapidly expanded its global reach, offering a comprehensive portfolio of casino games across regulated markets, supported by a robust licensing strategy and a commitment to innovation and quality.
March 22, 2024, Malta - Relax Gaming, a renowned iGaming aggregator and supplier, has again made headlines by awarding a massive €2.7 million jackpot to a fortunate player at Unibet casino. The monumental win came from a modest €3.50 bet on the popular game Pine of Plinko Dream Drop by Print Studios, marking the fourteenth instance of a player achieving millionaire status through the Dream Drop Jackpot series. A Year of Record Wins Surpassing Expectations: This remarkable win follows closely behind the thirteenth Mega Jackpot drop of the Dream Drop series in January, cumulatively paying out over €5.5 million in 2024 alone. Pine of Plinko Dream Drop, set against a fantasy woodland backdrop, offers players a chance to win up to 10,000 times their stake. The game's high volatility is enhanced by unique features such as the Plinko Bonus, Feature Bet, and, notably, the Dream Drop Jackpot, making it a thrilling adventure for those seeking substantial rewards. Pine of Plinko Dream Drop Screenshot: Industry Leaders Comment Relax Gaming's CEO, Simon Hammon, expressed his excitement over the early successes of 2024, highlighting the potential to surpass previous records with the Dream Drop titles. Filip Wargeus, CCO at Print Studios, emphasized the goal of creating immersive experiences for players, noting the high engagement levels with Pine of Plinko and the delight in seeing another millionaire emerge from their game. David Robertson, Director of Casino and Gaming at Kindred Group, underscored the Dream Drop Jackpot's reputation for offering mega wins, expressing delight at hosting the latest millionaire at their casino. Relax Gaming: A Pillar of Innovation Recognized as a leading B2B supplier, Relax Gaming has garnered numerous accolades, including the GGA's Product Launch of the Year for Dream Drop Jackpots and Slot of the Year for Money Train 3. The company provides over 4,000 online casino games, ranging from proprietary slots to a vast array of content from partner studios through its innovative partnership programs. About Relax Gaming Founded in 2010, Relax Gaming Group has set out to simplify B2B content delivery in the iGaming sector. Relax Gaming focuses on collaboration and simplicity and offers access to an extensive portfolio of over 4,000 casino games to more than 700 operator brands. The company holds licenses in multiple jurisdictions and supports regulated markets worldwide, showcasing its commitment to growth, quality, and player satisfaction.
Join the aquatic adventure of Ice Lobster, the latest high-volatility slot by Pragmatic Play. Spin the reels filled with marine symbols for a chance to win big with multipliers and free spins on a 5x3 grid. The Aquatic Adventure of Ice Lobster Pragmatic Play invites players to submerge themselves into the oceanic depths with its new slot game, Ice Lobster. Set against a frosty underwater world backdrop, this slot combines a classic 5x3 grid with the thrill of high-volatility gameplay. Players will encounter various sea creatures and fishing gear that bring the ocean floor to life. Engaging Gameplay Features Ice Lobster stands out with its engaging mechanics and potential for big payouts. The game features 20 fixed pay lines, where golden fish wilds can substitute for any symbol except the Scatter and Money symbols. These wilds enhance players' chances of forming winning combinations across the reels. Want to try Ice Lobster for real money? Choose from the OCR Top Pragmatic Play Online Casinos List, which the OCR Team has verified and approved! Free Spins and Multiplier Rewards The excitement peaks when players land three, four, or five anchor scatter symbols, triggering 8, 12, or 15 free spins, respectively. During these free spins, each scatter symbol transforms its position into a lobster pot, enhancing the potential for wins. Each new scatter symbol landing during the free spins grants an additional spin and adds more lobster pots to the grid. Lucrative Money Symbols Adding to the thrill, money symbols can land in these lobster pots, potentially earning up to 1,000 times the total bet. The game increases the stakes by applying multipliers of 2x or 3x when six or ten lobster pots are filled, respectively, maximizing the chances for substantial wins. Game Specifications and Accessibility With a release date set for April 11, 2024, Ice Lobster is accessible to all players with its wide betting range from a minimum of $0.20 to a maximum of $240 per spin. The game is designed to cater to player preferences, with multiple RTP versions ranging from 94.56% to 96.53%, ensuring an inclusive gaming experience. Ice Lobster promises a visually captivating slot experience and offers the mechanics that seasoned slot players love. Whether it's the chase for the elusive scatter symbols or the thrill of hitting a big multiplier, Ice Lobster is set to make a splash in the online casino world.
MGA Games launches four thrilling new titles this May, enriching its diverse portfolio. Each game offers unique themes and rich gameplay, enhancing online casino offerings globally. A Fresh Slate of Games MGA Games, a leader in developing localized casino games, is set to enhance the iGaming landscape by launching four new games in May 2024. Each game promises to offer unique themes and engaging gameplay to cater to diverse player preferences. *Comparison of MGA Games' New Slot Releases Game Title Release Date Grid Layout Volatility RTP Min Bet Max Bet Max Multiplier Special Features Bobbi Eden Kapitein Nemo April 29, 2024 6x5 Medium 95.49% €0.10 €240 x5000 Wild Reel, Extra Spin, Kraken Mini-Game Jaguar Quest April 29, 2024 5x3 Medium 96.05% €0.10 €240 x5000 Expanding Wilds, Parrot Mini-Game The Explosive Bandit April 29, 2024 5x3 Medium 95.07% €0.10 €25 x5200 Free Spins, Wilds, Dynamite Function 1- Bobbi Eden Kapitein Nemo: A Nautical Adventure First in the lineup is "Bobbi Eden Kapitein Nemo," set to captivate Dutch players with its engaging underwater theme. The game, part of The Netherlands Celebrities collection, features the famous Dutch adult film actress Bobbi Eden. Players will navigate a 6x5 grid, seeking treasures with a top prize of €37,750. The game is enhanced by features like Wild Reel with Extra Spin and a Kraken mini-game, offering substantial engagement and win potential. It's scheduled for release across major Dutch online casinos starting April 29. 2- Uncovering Ancient Mysteries in "The Secret of the Pyramids" "The Secret of the Pyramids," a video bingo game, transports players to Ancient Egypt. The game introduces players to Alex Stone, an intrepid archaeologist, through a 7x7 grid where treasures hide under each tile. Offering up to 15 prize symbols and progressive jackpots, this game is perfect for bingo enthusiasts looking for adventure and riches. It will be available in major online casinos starting on April 29. 3- Jungle Thrills with "Jaguar Quest" "Jaguar Quest" brings the mystery of the jungle to life. This slot game features a 5x3 grid where the mighty jaguar reigns, offering players the thrill of exploration and discovery. The game is distinguished by its Parrot mini-game and expanding wilds, significantly increasing the chances of scoring big wins. Players can embark on this jungle adventure starting April 29. 4- Wild West Excitement in "The Explosive Bandit" Completing the May releases, "The Explosive Bandit" immerses players in a Wild West setting. This 5-reel slot game offers a vibrant portrayal of American frontier life, with a maximum prize of €52,500. Features like Free Spins and the Dynamite Function provide dynamic gameplay and the opportunity for significant payouts. This game will be released across all partnered online casinos on April 29. How Can You Start Playing the Latest MGA Games Releases? Discover and play the latest MGA Games releases by selecting from OCR's trusted list of online casinos, ensuring safe and enjoyable gaming experiences. Start playing today! MGA Games' Continued Innovation Each of these games demonstrates MGA Games' commitment to high-quality, engaging content tailored to specific markets. The company's approach combines innovative game mechanics with compelling narratives, ensuring each title offers a unique gaming experience. MGA Games continues to be recognized for its contributions to the iGaming industry, having garnered multiple awards for its creative and technological prowess. Looking Ahead As MGA Games continues to expand its offerings, players can expect more immersive and innovative games. These new releases are just a glimpse of what's to come in 2024, as MGA Games aims to transform the digital gaming experience with each title. Stay tuned to experience the art of gaming perfected by MGA Games.
In May 2024, Spinomenal, a leader in iGaming content, unveiled "Quest to the Underworld," a new addition to its Adventure series that promises to engage players with its mysterious and macabre theme. Engaging Theme and Design "Quest to the Underworld" captivates players immediately with its dark and intriguing underworld theme, complemented by a chilling soundtrack that enhances the game's eerie atmosphere. The game features medium symbols such as a vial, crossbow, goblet, and scroll, which are central to the narrative and draw players deeper into the adventure. Dynamic Wild Features The game introduces two Wild symbols—a glamorous lady and a black gear—that substitute for all symbols except the Free Spins and Bonus symbols. Landing five Wild symbols on a winning line rewards players with an x1000 multiplier, significantly increasing the stakes and excitement of the gameplay. Free Spins and Customizable Gameplay The Free Spins feature triggers when three or more Scattered Free Spins symbols appear on reels 1, 3, and 5. During this feature, one Wild symbol expands on a reel and remains in place until the round ends, offering players enhanced chances at winning big. Before the Free Spins commence, players choose from five options, each determining the position of the Stacked Wild and the number of free spins awarded, allowing for a customized gaming experience. Bonus Round and Mystery Symbols Players enter the bonus round by landing three or more Scattered bonus symbols, leading them to a three-leveled Wheel of Fortune. Each player has three attempts to spin the wheel, aiming to win prizes like multipliers, extra spins, or a level-up to enhance the value of their rewards. Additionally, Mystery symbols can appear randomly during the game, transforming into a random symbol and adding an element of surprise that could lead to significant wins. Developer's Insight Omer Henya, CO-CEO of Spinomenal, expressed excitement about the new release, stating, "Quest to the Underworld takes players on an eerie adventure in search of otherworldly returns. We are proud to offer a special and immersive experience that enhances our Adventure Series with slick mechanics and captivating gameplay." Where to Play Spinomanel Games on Real money? For those eager to embark on the thrilling "Quest to the Underworld," explore our curated list of trusted online casinos. OCR has thoroughly tested and approved each, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming environment with Spinomenal games. Choose your favorite casino from our list and start your adventure today! Not Just a Game! "Quest to the Underworld" by Spinomenal is not just a game but an experience. It melds rich graphics with intricate game mechanics to deliver an immersive and thrilling adventure. With its unique features and engaging theme, it stands out as a promising addition to the world of online slots, offering both challenges and substantial rewards to its players.
Boxing betting in Ireland offers thrilling opportunities for sports enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide provides insights into betting strategies, understanding odds, essential tips, and answers to common questions. Whether you're a beginner or a pro gambler, this guide will enhance your boxing betting experience. Understanding Boxing Betting Boxing betting odds represent the likelihood of different outcomes in a fight. Fractional odds are commonly used in Ireland, but decimal odds are also popular. Knowing how to read and compare these odds is essential for making informed bets. This guide provides a detailed comparison of boxing odds, helping you to understand how to maximize your returns when betting on boxing matches. By grasping the basics of odds and exploring various betting strategies, you can enhance your betting experience and make more intelligent wagers. Types of Boxing Bets Moneyline Bets: This is the most standard bet where you pick the fight's winner. Round Betting: Predict the round in which the fight will end. Method of Victory: Bet how the fight will be won – knockout, technical knockout, or decision. Over/Under Rounds: Wager on whether the fight will last more or fewer rounds than the set number. Reading Boxing Odds Fractional Odds: Commonly used in Ireland, these odds show the profit relative to the stake. For example, 5/1 means you win €5 for every €1 bet. Decimal Odds: These are more famous in Europe and easier to understand. For example, 6.00 means you win €6 for every €1 bet. Boxing Betting Strategy Research and Analysis Fighter Profiles: Study the fighters' records, styles, strengths, and weaknesses. Fight History: Review past performances, particularly recent fights. Training Camps: Consider the quality and reputation of the training camps. Injuries and Health: Check for recent injuries or health issues affecting performance. Value Betting Identify Value: Look for bets where the odds offered are higher than the actual probability of an outcome. Underdog Opportunities: Sometimes, betting on the underdog can yield higher returns if the odds are mispriced. Essential Tips for Betting on Boxing Stay Updated: Stay tuned with the most recent news, fighter interviews, and expert analysis. Watch Fights: Regularly watch boxing matches to understand fighter styles and trends. Budget Control: Set a budget and stick to it to avoid chasing losses. Search for the Best Odds: Compare odds from a wide spread of bookmakers to get the best bet value. Boxing Betting Odds Comparison Understanding Boxing Odds Boxing odds represent the likelihood of a particular outcome occurring. In Ireland, fractional odds are commonly used, but you might also encounter decimal odds. Here’s how to understand them: Outcome Fractional Odds Decimal Odds Explanation Fighter A to Win 5/2 3.50 You win €5 for every €2 bet. Total return is €7 for a €2 bet. Fighter B to Win 1/3 1.33 You win €1 for every €3 bet. Total return is €4 for a €3 bet. Draw 10/1 11.00 You win €10 for every €1 bet. Total return is €11 for a €1 bet. Comparison of Boxing Odds from Different Bookmakers Below is a comparison of odds from different bookmakers for an upcoming boxing match. Always compare odds to get the best value for your bets. Bookmaker Fighter A to Win Fighter B to Win Draw Bookmaker 1 5/2 (3.50) 1/3 (1.33) 10/1 (11.00) Bookmaker 2 11/4 (3.75) 2/5 (1.40) 9/1 (10.00) Bookmaker 3 12/5 (3.40) 4/11 (1.36) 11/1 (12.00) Explanation of Betting Terms Here’s a brief explanation of the terms used in the tables above: Fractional Odds: The first number indicates the profit you will make if you bet the amount of the second number. For example, 5/2 means you win €5 for every €2 bet. Decimal Odds: This format shows the total return for every €1 bet, including your stake. For example, 3.50 means you get €3.50 for every €1 bet. Total Return: This includes your original stake plus the profit. FAQs about Boxing Betting in Ireland Q: Is boxing betting legal in Ireland? A: Yes, betting on boxing is legal and regulated in Ireland. You can place bets through licensed bookmakers. Q: How do I place a bet on a boxing match? A: You can place bets online through various sportsbooks. Choose the type of bet, select your stake, and confirm your bet. Q: What are the most common types of boxing bets? A: The most common types are moneyline bets, round betting, method of victory, and over/under rounds. Q: How do I read boxing odds? A: In Ireland, fractional odds are standard. For example, 5/1 means you win €5 for every €1 bet. Decimal odds, like 6.00, mean you win €6 for every €1 bet. Q: What is value betting? A: Value betting involves finding bets with higher odds than the actual chance of the outcome, providing better returns. By following these strategies and tips and understanding the odds, you'll be better equipped to make informed boxing bets in Ireland. Stay informed, bet responsibly, and enjoy the thrilling world of boxing betting. Finding the Most Trusted and Verified Sports Betting Sites Regarding betting on boxing, it's crucial to use trusted and verified sports betting sites to guarantee a safe online betting experience. OnlineCasinoReports (OCR) offers advanced tools and resources to help you find the best sports betting platforms. Here’s how to use OCR’s tools to your advantage: Comprehensive Reviews: OCR provides detailed reviews of sports betting sites, covering aspects like licensing, security, user experience, and payment options. Comparison Tools: Use OCR’s comparison tools to evaluate different bookmakers side-by-side based on odds, bonuses, and features. User Ratings and Feedback: Access real expert reviews for maximum reliability and trustworthiness of each site. Latest Bonuses and Promotions: Stay updated with the latest bonuses and promotions offered by various sports betting platforms. Secure Payment Options: Ensure that the sites you choose support secure and convenient payment methods. By leveraging these tools, you can confidently choose the best sports betting sites for your boxing bets. Try it now and explore the top sports betting sites with OCR: https://www.onlinecasinoreports.ie/sportsbetting.
Recent changes to Ireland’s fundamental gambling laws will now let children enter certain places where sports betting happens. The changes also permit ATMs in specific situations, but they must follow strict rules. Moreover, the government plans to offer more exemptions for charities and philanthropic groups from the gambling ad ban between 5:30 am and 9:00 pm. Justice Minister Helen McEntee received Government approval for changes to the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 after significant lobbying efforts. She recently suggested crucial amendments to the existing gambling laws, and after legislative proceedings, these changes have just been approved by the government. As expected, the amendment to permit underage individuals to access gambling-prone establishments has sparked an enormous debate about safer gambling. However, as some experts see it, it is an opportunity for parents and guardians across the country to be more hands-on about gambling education for youngsters. Youngsters & Gambling in Ireland McEntee’s updated law will now allow children under 18 to enter places like racetracks where gambling happens. This will be permitted if these places offer other activities besides gambling. Establishments can install ATMs in these places but must follow strict rules. Citizens from different quarters have now come to criticize the proposed amendment, with many worrying that it might expose children to bookmaking and make it seem normal. Additionally, given that underage gambling is already a problem in Ireland, the Institute of Public Health recently performed a study on the same, and the findings were astonishing. Their report noted that nearly one in four 16-year-olds gambled for money the previous year. Additionally, according to the Institute of Public Health survey, more than 15% of those interviewed had issues with excessive or problem gambling. Nonetheless, as alarming as it appears, the most important highlight of the amendment is that kids still won’t be allowed to place bets. The idea behind this change isn’t to introduce our youngsters to gambling early. Instead, it encourages these venues to diversify their offerings beyond just online gambling. More ‘Flexibility’ for GAA and Charities James Browne, Ireland’s Minister of State at the Department of Justice, initially announced an exemption from this ad ban for philanthropic and charitable organizations if the prize was under €10,000. However, a cabinet memo has outlined plans for a complete exemption from the advertising restrictions the minister set. This new move would give charities, philanthropic establishments like the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), and other nonprofits the freedom to fundraise and advertise. These groups could run ads during restricted times after the changes, even if the prize they offer exceeds the initial limit. New laws regulating gambling will allow the GAA, charities, and other nonprofit organizations more flexibility. Here are the measures included in the gambling law proposal: Advertising is banned during daylight hours. Setting up a fund to aid programs that address problem gambling Forming the first gambling regulator in Ireland with sweeping regulatory authority in the sector McEntee’s planned changes will give enough flexibility in the law for philanthropic agencies like the GAA, charities, and other nonprofits. As part of this, the government mentioned that the new law wouldn’t cover Prize Bonds and Credit Unions when they hold prize draws. More Gambling Education for Youngsters is Vital As many industry experts have pointed out, despite the concerns, the proposed amendments provide an opportunity for parents and guardians to initiate discussions about gambling early. They could, for instance, bring up the topic naturally when encountering gambling ads on TV or lottery tickets in stores. This approach can keep children informed and facilitate responsible choices about gambling. The said education should focus on the positive aspects and potential dangers of gambling. Open conversations can help children understand the complexities and prevent problematic behavior development. Youngsters should also be encouraged to ask questions and explore different perspectives on gambling. This approach fosters a safe environment for a nuanced understanding of gambling and its implications. Additionally, the words and actions of parents or caregivers greatly influence kids’ views and behaviors toward gambling. Thus, talking openly and setting clear rules is vital to shaping children’s attitudes towards gambling positively. Some practical tips experts propose to protect the young from gambling problems include encouraging adults to be good role models as kids look to their adult caregivers to set a good example. Adults must also not place bets on behalf of youngsters, allow them to access their wagering accounts, or encourage them to wager. By setting standards with actions, children will follow suit. Meanwhile, instead of covering children’s eyes, adults need to explain how gambling works and the risks involved by teaching them that gambling usually leads to losing so they can make better choices. Be free with your child and let them know they can ask you any questions they have about gambling. Parents and Guardians Should Get More Involved Parents and guardians are supposed to take time to know their kids’ favorite games. This way, it is easy to learn how they work and check if they have any gambling features. By playing these games with their kids, adults will create memorable bonding moments when playing these games together while also getting a chance to talk about the dangers of gambling where necessary. Adults should also avoid storing their credit card information on devices their kids use for gaming. Some gaming and gambling sites have in-app purchases that may not clearly show they involve real money. By the same token, parents and guardians should edit their online security and advertising preferences. That’s because it’s difficult for kids to avoid gambling when gambling sites and ads appear whenever they’re online. You can simply stop gambling ads by changing settings in your browser and on social networking sites like Instagram and Facebook. Parental controls are also vital to prevent underage gambling-like behavior, as they limit what content your kids can access and how much they can spend on in-game purchases. These settings should be used across devices, web browsers, and streaming services. The Changes are Welcome Industry operators have eagerly awaited updates to gambling laws and their changes. Industry stakeholders have been lobbying hard to shape the bill and ease some rules. Horse racing groups, bookmakers, and even charities were worried about losing money under the new laws. Understandably, Charities like Arthritis Ireland have asked to be exempt from the advertising restrictions. The said institutions argue that lottery and raffle capital are crucial for their operations across Ireland. The changes planned aim to give flexibility to Ireland’s NGOs, charities, and sports groups like the GAA.
Pragmatic Play, a prominent content supplier in the iGaming industry, has expanded its sportsbook product with the addition of horse racing. This new offering provides extensive coverage of horse racing events from over 30 global territories, further solidifying Pragmatic Play’s position as a leading sports betting solutions provider. Horse Racing Joins the Lineup Pragmatic Play’s sportsbook offering has been significantly enhanced with the introduction of horse racing, a sport renowned for its popularity in the betting world. With significant national and international races occurring year-round, horse racing attracts a vast audience of bettors, making it a crucial addition to any sportsbook. A Comprehensive Betting Solution The Pragmatic Play Sportsbook is designed as a fully integrated sports betting solution, covering every aspect of the trading lifecycle from event creation to bet settlement. It features custom markets, dynamic odds, and advanced risk management, all supported by official data to optimize margins. The platform also offers unparalleled localization and customization capabilities, enabling operators to tailor the user experience to align with their brand identity. Global Coverage and Expert Management The newly launched horse racing product offers extensive coverage, with racing events from over 30 global territories now available. This product is a fully managed service, including odds, best-in-class racing content, live video streaming, and comprehensive global horse racing data. Gareth Crook, SVP of Sports at Pragmatic Play, highlighted the significance of this addition: Our latest product launch provides Pragmatic Play clients with access to a market-leading horse racing product. Racing is essential for any sportsbook operator, with ‘always on’ racing coverage from tracks all around the world a cornerstone of any sportsbook product. A Commitment to Excellence Pragmatic Play’s inclusion of horse racing underscores its dedication to delivering a leading sportsbook solution that covers the most popular sports betting markets. By continually expanding its offerings, Pragmatic Play ensures that operators have access to the best products and services available in the industry. About Pragmatic Play Pragmatic Play, headquartered in Gibraltar, is a leading game supplier known for providing player-favorite games to top global brands in the iGaming industry. Through a single API, Pragmatic Play offers a diverse portfolio of award-winning slots, live casino games, bingo, virtual sports, and a comprehensive sportsbook, all available in major regulated markets, languages, and currencies.
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