Gambling spend spikes as cost-of-living crisis pushes some consumers to bet
Gambling spending in Ireland has risen over 20% year-on-year, potentially driven by the cost-of-living crisis, prompting concerns from addiction experts.Summary
A recent surge in gambling spending, exceeding 20% year-on-year in October, has raised alarms among addiction experts in Ireland. Barry Grant of Extern Problem Gambling suggests that some individuals are turning to gambling as a way to offset rising costs, seeing it as a potential source of income during difficult economic times. He also criticized the pervasive advertising of gambling products. The Gambling Regulatory of Ireland plans to implement a licensing regime by 2026 and enhance enforcement capabilities. Professor Colin O’Gara highlighted the challenges faced by the regulator due to the long-standing proliferation of gambling and expressed concerns about the potential misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry, while also suggesting AI could be used proactively to identify and support at-risk individuals. Experts emphasize the need to destigmatize problem gambling and recognize it as a public health issue and a biologically driven brain disease.
(Source：Irish Examiner)