A fresh proposal to modify gaming regulations in Northern Ireland has been presented. This marks the initial instance of such an action in over three decades.
The proposal was submitted by Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey. It has successfully navigated the initial phase of a seven-step process to become law. The bill must be enacted before the current legislative term concludes in 2022.
The new legislation will prohibit minors from engaging with gaming machines. It will also empower the government to levy taxes on gambling enterprises and establish guidelines for gambling businesses.
The proposal will modernize the 1985 Gambling, Gaming, Lottery and Entertainment (Northern Ireland) Order, which currently governs the sector.
Hargey stated that the bill constitutes the inaugural phase of a two-pronged strategy to revise gambling laws. The subsequent phase will address online gambling and will be introduced at a later juncture.
The Community Services division, in a note detailing the alterations and their financial repercussions, stated that the legislation intends to address certain issues concerning the current regulation of land-based gambling, gaming, lotteries, and entertainment. They also aim to enhance the regulations to safeguard both the enterprises and the individuals who utilize these services, particularly young people and those who may be susceptible to gambling problems.
The proposed law will be discussed and voted upon by the legislators in the coming days. If it clears the initial hurdle, it will be forwarded to a committee for more thorough examination and potential modifications. Subsequently, it will be returned to the legislators for a final vote. Upon successful passage, it requires approval from the Secretary of State and ultimately the Queen.
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