Northern Irish APG launches gambling-related harm inquiry
Body opens third inquiry to explore the public heath approach to gambling-related harm ahead of regulatory change
The All-Party Group (APG) on Reducing Harm Related to Gambling has launched an inquiry into the public heath approach to gambling-related harm in Northern Ireland.
The new inquiry will run until 3 February, with the APG arguing the current approach to treating gambling-related harm is focused on individual behaviours rather than wider public health impacts.
Recent consultations have reported concerns from respondents, such as a disconnect between gambling regulation and public health, and no government-provided support services.
The APG cited a study from the International Gambling Studies journal which noted 2.3% of the Northern Irish population suffers from gambling-related harm.
Using these figures, it would put the rate four times higher than that of the rest of the UK and almost three times higher than in the Republic of Ireland.
The APG was established in March 2020 and has so far held two inquiries into gambling.
The first was on the future regulation of the industry and the second was on the issue of gaming machines, with both inquiries feeding into developing new gambling laws.
Gambling regulation is a devolved matter in Northern Ireland, with the country currently reviewing the regulation in a two-step process.
The first step was completed earlier this year, with legislators now moving to undertake a more comprehensive overhaul of gambling laws.
A focus on online gambling and the introduction of an independent regulator are set to be the key sticking points for any new legislation.
Robbie Butler MLA, chair of the APG, said gambling-related harm should be viewed in the same way as addictions to food, smoking and alcohol in its treatment approach.
Butler said: “A public health approach into gambling-related harm would move the focus from the individual problem gambler to a much broader consideration of the causes of gambling-related harm that can then be located within a wider framework of public health policies.
“We are recommending that gambling be reflected in regulation that prioritises health, prevention of harm and treatment. Gambling addiction should be fully integrated into all relevant strategies including mental health and suicide prevention,” he added.