From today, customers in Ireland struggling with problem gambling can ask their banks to block debit card payments on gambling websites and apps, under a new initiative led by the Irish Banking Culture Board (IBCB).
The scheme, developed in partnership with AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB, introduces voluntary card blocking as part of a broader Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling, which aims to provide consistent and compassionate support to those at risk.
According to research presented at the launch, 90% of gambling transactions in Ireland now take place online, and almost all of these — 99% — are funded via debit cards. Banking leaders say the new measure offers an important tool to help customers regain control of their finances and reduce gambling-related harm.
The initiative was formally launched at Dublin Chamber of Commerce and attended by Minister of State at the Department of Finance Robert Troy, representatives from the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, Gambling Care, and senior executives from the participating banks.
Under the framework, banks will introduce several practical supports. These include dedicated phone lines for vulnerable customers, staff training to recognise and respond to problem gambling, voluntary card blocking, and referrals to external services such as Gambling Care and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).
Marion Kelly, Chief Executive of the IBCB, said the commitment reflects the industry’s recognition of its wider responsibility. “Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities,” she said. “Member banks recognise their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help. The introduction of voluntary card blocking by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to tackling gambling harm, and we call on other financial services providers to introduce similar measures.”
Minister Troy praised the move as an example of proactive consumer protection. “By working together to provide meaningful supports, the banking sector is contributing positively to addressing the issue of problem gambling,” he said.
The IBCB’s Common Commitment of Care forms part of its broader mission to promote trust, fairness and transparency across Irish banking. By standardising how banks respond to vulnerable customers, the framework is designed to ensure consistency and reliability, while also directing those affected to trusted services such as Gambling Care’s 24/7 helpline and MABS’s free advice programmes.
With problem gambling recognised as a growing social issue, banking leaders argue that voluntary card blocking and structured support systems can make a real difference. The initiative, they say, underscores the role of banks not only in financial services but also in safeguarding the wellbeing of their customers and communities.
