IRISH RESPONSIBLE GAMING INITIATIVE LAUNCHED

Posted 2/24/11 : GambleAware chosen by Irish Responsible Gambling Board
 
With the final strictures being put in place for the Irish Responsible Gambling Board (IRGB) the trustees and directors are preparing to launch the online portal at Gambleaware.ie, which will provide a platform for education, awareness and advisory services related to problem gambling in the Republic of Ireland.
 
The charitable organisation has partnered with counselling centres in Ireland as well as a broad cross section of political, religious and gaming industry leaders, a statement from the Board revealed this week.
 
"We plan to create awareness about responsible gambling and treatment, and encourage an effective approach to responsible gambling within the gambling industry," the statement asserts. "Ultimately, the Board shall strive to assist in the set up an operation of a national helpline and, if adequately resourced, provide referrals for problem gamblers and their families."
 
The Board has revealed that it plans to use a number of channels such as trade publications, websites and in-venue promotion to provide advice and training on social responsibility to gambling venue operators initially.
 
There is no empirical data on the prevalence of gambling or indeed problem gambling in the Republic of Ireland, and the Board hopes to change this to ensure that help for those who need it is available, and that operators of gambling facilities are aware of their obligations.
 
"It is an internationally recognised statistic that less then 1 percent of those who need help, actually seek it. And this is in jurisdictions with established responsible gaming bodies. We hope to increase awareness of problem gambling, encourage responsible gambling and educate the public, particularly young people, about gambling," the statement concludes.