Ireland Targets Gambling Harm With Card Blocking System

Ireland has launched a groundbreaking nationwide initiative allowing citizens to voluntarily block gambling transactions on their bank cards, marking a significant milestone in the country's fight against gambling-related harm.

The Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling, spearheaded by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) and the Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB), represents a collaborative effort with Ireland's three major banks—AIB, Bank of Ireland, and PTSB.

Banks Respond to Alarming Online Gambling Statistics

The new system addresses a critical issue revealed by recent research: 90% of gambling in Ireland now occurs online, with 99% of those transactions processed through debit cards. This overwhelming digital shift has created an urgent need for practical intervention tools.

Under the voluntary blocking scheme, customers can contact their bank to prevent their cards from processing payments to gambling sites and apps. The initiative goes beyond simple transaction blocking, requiring banks to enhance staff training, establish dedicated support helplines, and provide direct referrals to specialized services like Gambling Care and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).

IBCB CEO Marion Kelly emphasized the banking sector's responsibility: "Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities. IBCB member banks recognize their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help."

Standardized Support Across All Participating Banks

The framework ensures consistent care regardless of which bank a customer uses. Each participating institution must maintain trained staff members who can handle gambling-related concerns, establish clear contact points for vulnerable customers, and provide standardized referrals to external support services.

This coordinated approach addresses previous gaps where customers received varying levels of support depending on their banking relationship. The IBCB, while not a regulatory body, serves as an independent voice for cultural reform in Irish banking and brings together executives, legal experts, and union representatives focused on rebuilding public trust.

Kelly added: "This Common Commitment of Care ensures that anyone experiencing gambling difficulties will find clear, accessible supports to assistance through their bank. The introduction of a voluntary card block by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to those experiencing problem gambling."

Government Backing Strengthens Initiative Impact

Minister of State at the Department of Finance Robert Troy praised the banking sector's proactive stance, calling it an "important step" in addressing gambling addiction across Ireland.

"The Government has committed to tackling problem gambling through the Gambling Regulation Act and the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, and sectoral co-operation remains key to achieving our aims," Troy stated.

The initiative comes after mounting pressure from stakeholders, with over 200 organizations recently urging GRAI to implement stronger protective measures for vulnerable gamblers.

Implementation Details and Public Launch

A formal launch event scheduled for Friday in Dublin will present comprehensive program details to the public and key stakeholders. The presentation will outline specific procedures for requesting card blocks, timelines for implementation, and coordination protocols between banks and support services.

The IBCB has called on other financial service providers to implement similar protective measures, potentially expanding the program's reach beyond the three founding banks. This voluntary approach allows customers to maintain control over their financial decisions while providing crucial safeguards during vulnerable periods.

The card-blocking system represents a practical addition to Ireland's broader strategy for addressing problem gambling through accessible financial safeguards. By combining immediate transaction prevention with comprehensive support services, the initiative offers a multi-layered approach to protecting vulnerable individuals and their families from gambling-related financial harm.