• Online gambling is fueling an invisible addiction crisis among Irish teenagers, with experts fearing a 'gamblified' generation.
• A 2023 ESRI study indicates a significant increase in problem gambling rates compared to 2019, affecting a large segment of the adult population.
• The newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is taking steps to introduce consumer protections and address excessive gambling, but faces challenges like advertising inducements.

Ireland is grappling with a growing concern over gambling addiction, particularly among teenagers. The rise of online gambling platforms, accessible via mobile devices, has created a constant opportunity for individuals to engage in betting, leading to concerns that problem gambling has become a largely invisible health crisis. Experts warn that the normalization of online gambling among young people, coupled with a slow regulatory response, could worsen the situation. The recent establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) represents a turning point, with the promise of new consumer protections and a focus on addressing excessive gambling.

• What: Increasing problem gambling, particularly among teenagers due to online accessibility. The establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) to address this.
• Who: Teenagers, adults, Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), Oisín McConville, Colin O’Gara, Emma Kavanagh, Chris Joyce, Barry Grant, ESRI.
• When: The crisis has been growing over the past decade. The GRAI was established last month (April 2025, according to the article). New consumer protections will come into effect next year (2026).
• Where: Ireland, with a focus on online gambling platforms and treatment centers like the Rutland Centre in Dublin.

The article highlights a critical issue in Ireland: the growing problem of gambling addiction, particularly among teenagers. The ease of access to online gambling platforms is identified as a major contributing factor, leading to a 'gamblified' generation. The establishment of the GRAI is a significant step towards addressing the problem, but concerns remain about the effectiveness of the proposed regulations, particularly regarding advertising inducements. The article also underscores the importance of providing support and treatment for those affected by gambling addiction.

We have a generation that are now in their teens and early 20s who are fully ‘gamblified’.

With gambling addiction, it’s so secretive. You can do it in the bathroom on your lunch break, and that’s what I would have done.

I felt really comfortable on the football pitch, and I felt I could add value, and I would feel the same way walking into a bookies. Then the competitive thing kicked in. I felt the bookie was getting the better of me, so I had to go back in. I thought the way out of my addiction was through my addiction.

Ireland faces a significant challenge in addressing the growing problem of gambling addiction, particularly among its youth. The establishment of the GRAI and the introduction of new regulations represent a positive step, but experts emphasize the need for comprehensive measures, including stricter advertising controls, increased public awareness, and better access to treatment and support services. The long-term success of these efforts will depend on ongoing monitoring, adaptation, and a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from the harms of gambling.