Northern Ireland has enacted the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements Bill that brings sweeping changes to the local gambling industry.
The bill, which received Royal Assent on Tuesday of this week, modifies the existing Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements Order 1985 and is see as the first step in a broad-ranging reform of Northern Ireland gambling regulations.
Betting shops will now be allowed to open on Sundays and Good Friday
One of the most notable changes to the law is that betting shops are now allowed to open on a Sunday and Good Friday, but will still remain closed on Christmas Day. The changes to opening hours restrictions will come into effect immediately. However, local reports suggest that the majority of bookmakers in the province will not be open this Sunday.
The bill also includes a mandatory levy on all gambling licenses along with a new code of practice for gambling companies. According to the legislation, it is now an offence to allow minors (anyone under 18) to play a gambling machine under any circumstances.
Speaking of the bill Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said:
“Today sees the bill complete its legislative passage through the Assembly. It will improve protection for children and young people through the creation of a new offence of inviting, causing or permitting a young person under 18 years to play a high stakes gaming machine.
The bill also provides increased opportunities for local charities, sports clubs and other voluntary groups to raise more money for good causes by increasing the maximum ticket price and simplifying the rules around deduction of expenses that apply to societies’ lotteries.”
In February of this year, Northern Ireland’s Communities Committee voiced its support of the bill, and called for an official gambling regulator to be introduced to oversee the industry.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.