Responsible Gambling in Ireland: Tools and Resources

Keeping Gambling Fun (And Recognising When It's Not)

I'm not going to lecture you. You're an adult, you can make your own choices. But I've seen people get into real trouble with gambling, and it usually happens gradually. The person it's happening to is often the last to notice.

So here's some practical stuff that might help.

The New National Exclusion Register

This is probably the most useful thing to come out of the 2024 gambling law.

Once it's running (expected 2025), you'll be able to register once and be blocked from every licensed gambling site in Ireland. No more having to self-exclude individually with Paddy Power, then Betfair, then 888, and so on.

You'll be able to choose:

For shorter periods, you can request removal once the time is up. Permanent means permanent - they won't reverse it.

It's not live yet, but when GRAI's website launches, I'll add the link here.

Self-Exclusion Right Now (Until the Register Exists)

For now, you have to do it casino by casino. Pain in the arse, but here's how:

**Paddy Power**: Account settings → Safer Gambling → Take a Break or Self-Exclusion

**BoyleSports**: Account → Responsible Gambling, or contact support directly

**888 Casino**: My Account → Responsible Gaming → Self-Exclusion

**Betfair**: Settings → Responsible Gambling

**LeoVegas**: Account menu → Responsible Gaming

Most offer cooling-off periods (24 hours, 7 days, 30 days) and full self-exclusion (6 months to permanent).

Setting Limits That Actually Work

All licensed Irish casinos have to offer deposit limits. Use them.

The trick is setting them BEFORE you start playing, when you're thinking clearly. Not after a few losses when you're tempted to chase.

**What I'd suggest:**

Once set, most casinos won't let you increase limits immediately - there's usually a 24-72 hour cooling-off period. This is by design.

Honest Signs Things Might Be Going Wrong

If any of these sound familiar, please talk to someone. There's no shame in it.

Where to Get Help in Ireland

**Problem Gambling Ireland**

Helpline: 089 241 5401

Website: problemgambling.ie

Free counselling, completely confidential

**Gamblers Anonymous Ireland**

Website: gamblersanonymous.ie

Meetings in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, and other locations

Been running for decades, helped thousands of people

**Extern Problem Gambling**

Website: extern.org

Covers all of Ireland, also offers family support

**Your GP**

Seriously, your doctor can help. They can refer you to appropriate services and it's all confidential.

For Family Members

If someone you care about has a gambling problem:

Don't lend them money. I know that sounds harsh, but it enables the behaviour.

Don't cover for them or make excuses.

Do express concern without judgement. "I've noticed X and I'm worried about you" works better than accusations.

Do look after yourself. This is stressful for families too.

**GamAnon** (gamanon.ie) specifically supports families and friends of problem gamblers.

One Last Thing

Gambling should be entertainment. Like going to the cinema or having a few pints - it costs money, you enjoy yourself, and that's the end of it.

If it stops being fun, stop doing it. There's no shame in taking a break, setting stricter limits, or walking away entirely.

The casinos will still be there if you decide to come back.