Gambling activity among young adults in Ireland has seen a sharp increase in early 2025, driven in part by major sporting events. New data from Bank of Ireland reveals that card spending on gambling rose by 19% among individuals aged 18 to 25 in the first quarter of the year, despite a slight overall decline in gambling-related card payments across all age groups.
Bank of Ireland’s analysis highlights that 90% of all gambling transactions during this period were conducted online, with 99% of those payments made using debit cards. Men accounted for the majority of betting activity, placing 71% of the total bets. The counties showing the most notable increases in gambling include Wicklow with a 37% rise, Kilkenny up by 24%, Limerick at 20%, and Laois with a 17% increase. These trends coincided with high-profile sporting events such as the Cheltenham Festival and the Six Nations rugby tournament, which are believed to have played a significant role in driving gambling behavior.
In contrast, gambling among individuals over the age of 65 saw a marked decline, dropping by 8% over the same time frame.
Bank of Ireland Launches Card Blocking Feature
In light of the concerning rise in betting, especially among younger demographics, Bank of Ireland has introduced a new voluntary feature that allows customers to block gambling-related transactions on their debit cards. This initiative enables both personal and business account holders to request a restriction that prevents payments to any gambling operators, including those linked to online casinos, lottery sites, and slot machines.
According to the bank, this feature is intended to support financial wellbeing and reduce the risks associated with problem gambling, which can have serious consequences for individuals and their families. “Problem gambling can have a devastating effect not just on the person involved, but also on families, friends and loved ones,” said Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer at Bank of Ireland. “This initiative we are launching is designed to help customers take positive steps to improve control over their finances.”
The card block feature is currently available for debit cards, and the bank has confirmed it will be extended to include credit cards in the near future. Customers based in the Republic of Ireland can activate the feature by calling 1818 200 423, while those in Northern Ireland can reach out via 0345 6016 157. Additional information is also accessible through the bank’s website at www.bankofireland.com/gambling.
Advocates Applaud Initiative to Curb Gambling Harm
The move has been welcomed by GamblingCare.ie, which works to support individuals affected by gambling addiction. Oisín McConville, representing the organization, emphasized the importance of interventions like this in tackling the growing problem among younger audiences. “We can see from the latest gambling spend insights that betting amongst younger people is on the rise. To combat the scourge of problem gambling, a wide range of supports is essential to prevent the issue from becoming overwhelming for those impacted,” he said.
He further noted that the introduction of these card blocks marks “another step in the right direction” in protecting vulnerable customers and promoting healthier financial behavior.
Bank of Ireland’s new feature is part of its broader ambition to enhance the financial well-being of its customers, particularly those facing difficult circumstances. The lender has positioned this move not only as a tool for individual control but also as a contribution to wider community support efforts.
Source:
Bank of Ireland introduces voluntary gambling blocks, Bank of Ireland, May 2025.