Irish Labour Party Leader, Ivana Bacik, has voiced her support for a proposal to introduce a complete ban on gambling advertising across the Republic of Ireland. This will make the country one of a growing number of European jurisdictions that have already taken similar steps.
Bacik said that Ireland should follow the example set by countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Italy, where stricter advertising rules have been implemented as part of larger efforts to modernise gambling policy and ensure the sector is regulated and socially responsible.
“Labour have called for a ban on gambling ads,” she stated.
Ireland is in the process of reshaping its gambling framework after the passage of the Gambling Regulation Act, which was a milestone in updating laws that had fallen behind in the digital era. Bacik said that advertising restrictions will play a role in keeping gambling clearly defined as a form of entertainment, and not something that dominates public spaces, especially as online platforms are becoming more visible and accessible.
Within this changing regulatory situation, licensed operators and the best online casinos in Ireland are being recognised for the role they play in offering secure and transparent gambling experiences for players. These platforms follow strict rules and verification standards and ensure that gambling remains recreational. Supporters of tighter advertising standards believe that clear boundaries will allow regulated operators to stand out because of the quality of their offerings and trust, and not the value of their marketing efforts.
Bacik’s recent comments were prompted by a high-profile retail promotion in Dublin, which reignited the debate about how gambling services are promoted to the public. While the operator involved said it complies fully with existing regulations, the discussion added fuel as some lawmakers called for the current legislation to go further to manage advertising. The Gambling Regulation Act introduced a watershed on broadcast gambling advertisements between 5.30 AM and 9 PM, showing a more cautious approach to promotion.
Ireland’s regulatory future is in the hands of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), which was established to oversee the sector and prepare for a new licensing regime for online gambling expected to start in 2026. The authority has already published its Statement of Strategy for 2025 to 2027. It outlines priorities like effective supervision and fair competition in the market. It is also expected to become self-financing through fees paid by licensed operators.
Labour currently sits in opposition with 11 seats in the Dáil. Bacik’s comments show how gambling policy is going to remain an active topic across party lines. Ireland is looking to find a balance between consumer choice, oversight, and innovation. Policymakers now need to create an environment where gambling is clearly a form of leisure with strong regulation.
