Northern Ireland is looking for ways to modernize its online gambling system

Friday, March 11th, 2011 - Emily W

The current legislation dealing with gambling in Northern Ireland was enacted back in 1985. Since that time, the popularity of games like poker and bingo has grown tremendously with every local pub having at least one gambling machine. The gambling industry has also witnessed immense growth in its technology. Internet betting and the use of online and mobile casinos is keeping pace with the increased number of players using online gambling sites in the UK. 

Lawmakers in Northern Ireland recognize the need to modernize the current system for the benefit of its own citizens and to appeal to online gambling service providers thinking of establishing operations in their country. 

Bookmakers, online poker and online casino operators agree the main issue for change is allowing bookmaking operations to conduct business on Sundays. Gambling supporters insist residents in Northern Ireland should have the same right as citizens throughout the UK, the opportunity to bet on sports in the UK on Sunday or any other given day. 

Other proposed changes in legislation must address the issues of problem gambling, underage illegal gambling and whether the government should impose a tax on the gambling industry similar to the example set in the UK. 

Critics maintain the UK system in which the Government imposes a steep tax levy on the betting profits from all UK gambling sites has forced major online betting companies such as Betfair, Ladbrokes and William Hill to relocate some of their online gambling operations offshore to places like Gibraltar where taxes are considerably lower.