A new study estimates that 1-in-30 adults in Ireland suffer from problem gambling
New figures from the ESRI indicate that there is far more problem gambling in Ireland than previously believed.
A new study estimates that 1-in-30 adults in Ireland suffer from problem gambling, which is ten times higher than a previous measure from 2019.
Previous estimates on the prevalence of gambling were based on face-to-face interviews, but this ESRI study was done anonymously online, using a representative sample of 2,850 adults.
Researchers say the new 1-in-30 figure closely matches the rate of problem gambling that people report seeing among their friends and family. While the amount that people reported spending on gambling compares well with national figures for industry revenue.
The ESRI said the new figure would equate to 130,000 adults with problem gambling in Ireland, suggesting that the problem is more widespread than previously thought.
A further 7 per cent of the population show 'moderate' evidence of a gambling problem, while a further 590 thousand people reporting some problematic gambling experiences or behaviours.
The ESRI's Pete Lunn says the Behavioural Research Unit was surprised by some of the findings:
Two New TDs Enter The Fray After Bye-Elections In Galway West And Dublin Central
Rural Housing Supply Below Demand, Report Finds
€1.5 Million Cannabis Seized In Joint Dublin Operation
Calls For Prison Security Review After Inmate Died In Their Cell
Fuel Oil Prices At Highest Recorded Value In Five Years
Over 200 Fines For E-Scooter Offences Issued In Kildare Carlow Area
Planned 72-Hour Ambulance Strike Called Off
Taoiseach Travelling To Vatican To Meet Pope Leo
