Ireland’s leading banks have pledged to take stronger action on gambling-related harm with the launch of a new framework designed to standardise support for vulnerable customers.

The Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB), in partnership with its member banks AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB, has unveiled the Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling. 

The initiative sets out practical steps to help those affected by gambling addiction, including dedicated support lines, trained staff, voluntary debit card blocking, and referrals to trusted organisations such as Gambling Care and MABS.

A banking response to a growing concern

Research suggests that almost all gambling activity in Ireland is digital, with 90% of transactions occurring online and 99% of those paid for by debit card. The IBCB argues that voluntary card blocking is therefore a critical safeguard, giving customers the tools to regain financial control if they feel that they are losing it.

Meanwhile, a recent ESRI study also estimates that about one in 30 Irish adults suffer from problem gambling. That works out to roughly 130,000 adults in Ireland with a gambling problem.

Marion Kelly, CEO of the IBCB, said: “Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities. IBCB member banks recognise their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help. 

“This Common Commitment of Care ensures that anyone experiencing gambling difficulties will find clear, accessible support to assistance through their bank. 

“The introduction of a voluntary card block by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to those experiencing problem gambling and IBCB calls on other financial services players to put in similar measures.”

Political and regulatory backing

The launch event at the Dublin Chamber of Commerce was attended by Minister of State Robert Troy T.D. of the Department of Finance, as well as representatives from the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, the problem gambling treatment organisation Gambling Care, and senior figures from the three banks.

Minister Troy praised the move, stating: “I commend the Irish Banking Culture Board and its member banks for taking this important step to address the issue of problem gambling. By working together to provide meaningful support, the banking sector is contributing positively to consumer protection. 

“This Common Commitment of Care is a valuable addition to the broader efforts being made across government and society to tackle gambling-related harms. The Government has committed to tackling problem gambling, through the Gambling Regulation Act and the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, and sectoral cooperation remains key to achieving our aims.”

Building consistency and trust

The IBCB said the Common Commitment of Care is intended to provide consistent standards across the banking sector while directing customers to expert resources such as Gambling Care’s 24/7 helpline and MABS’s debt and budgeting services.

By uniting the country’s largest banks under one framework, the initiative aims to strengthen public trust in financial institutions and demonstrate their role in tackling wider social challenges.

The IBCB and its members said they hope that by collaborating with government, regulators and support organisations, the new framework will contribute to lasting and positive change in how gambling-related harms are addressed in Ireland.