Northern Ireland Betting Reforms Expected

Gamers in Northern Ireland will be keeping a close eye on development in the near future, as the country’s gambling laws look set for an overhaul.

One of the noteworthy potential changes is the expected move to make it illegal for anyone below the age of 18 to bet on a gambling machine in Northern Ireland. Another one is the fact that a wager made with a local bookmaker will become a contract which is regarded as legally binding.

The Social Development Minister for Northern Ireland is called Nelson McCausland and he said that his priority is to “minimise the harmful effects of gambling”. He went on to confirm that the new legislation would be aimed at “keeping crime out of gambling” as well making sure that the industry is fair and that the young and vulnerable are well protected.

Still No Sunday Gambling

Despite the wide ranging nature of the proposed changes it seems that some of the older laws which have provoked criticism in the past are likely to remain. They include the need to closing down any gambling places on Sundays as well the existing veto on casinos being opened in the country.

A spokesperson for NITH said that they have been “working closely” with all of the interested parties for a number of years already to get prepared for these betting reforms.  They also stated that the legislation in Northern Ireland is “some way behind” both the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.