Eversheds Sutherland Partner Matthew Howse
Reacting to the news that Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has announced plans to deliver the first significant changes to gambling laws here in over 35 years, Matthew Howse, Partner at international law firm Eversheds Sutherland in Belfast said:
“This 35-year-old legislation quite clearly is not reflective of today’s modern society and particularly the significant advances in technology. Even across the rest of the UK and Ireland which have substantially more progressive gambling legislation, there are growing calls for additional reforms. Legislation which is fit for purpose is especially long overdue here.”
“One of the standout findings from the recent public consultation was that 60 per cent of respondents supported allowing casinos in Northern Ireland. This undoubtedly marks a general shift in attitudes towards gambling here, as does the support for sports bookmakers and betting shops to open and operate on a Sunday. For years, those with an interest have been freely able to visit ‘online’ casinos despite not being able to visit one in person. This change, if enacted, could however, see the swift opening of the very first casino in Belfast or another location, with various perceived benefits to the wider economy.”
“The sight of a casino in our towns and cities could come with stipulations, including a requirement for the industry to provide support for those struggling with addiction. 97 per cent of respondents to the public consultation wanted to see contributions towards ‘funding research, education and treatment’ from those companies who would benefit from the law changes. Although, it is worth noting that across the UK, it is commonplace for operators to agree to such caveats in return for a licence.”
“This potential legislative reform provides a real opportunity to maintain a sustainable and successful regulated gambling market in Northern Ireland which minimises gambling related harm.”