A bookies chain is to offer addicted gamblers in Ireland the option to have themselves banned from its shops, it was confirmed today.
Under Ladbrokes' scheme problem betters can sign a document to ensure staff stop them entering all of the chain's 134 shops here.
The organisation claimed the programme based on its eight-year strong UK model, which is run in association with GamCare, was the first of its kind to be introduced in Ireland.
Gamblers who have a flutter online can also sign a form to ensure they are unable to gamble over the internet under the 'self-exclusion' programme.
"It is a fact of life that some people suffer from problems with gambling and it is incumbent upon the gaming industry to recognise this fact and support those who have difficulty staying in control, said Mr Paul Bellringer, former chief executive of GamCare.
Ladbrokes, alongside GamCare which advises people with gambling problems and their families, have trained and briefed the chain's 700 staff around the country on the programme.
The scheme, including a freephone number 00 800 33 669 966, will be advertised through 15,000 leaflets and 200 posters in the chain's shops.
The number will link gamblers directly to GamCare qualified counsellors who can provide instant advice to worried callers. The service will also be able to refer callers to an Irish treatment centre.
PA