SDLP Social Justice spokesperson Mark H Durkan has written to the Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey in his capacity as Chairperson of the All Party Group on Mental Health calling for a cross-departmental approach in tackling and preventing gambling related harm in the North.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Gambling addiction has been a scourge within our communities. It has destroyed individuals and their families with its far reaching implications – not just the financial impact but the toll this addiction has on people’s mental health, wellbeing and the hold it can take over lives.
“While I welcome steps taken by the Communities Minister to address the harm caused by gambling as part of incoming gambling legislation, it’s clear that a more co-operative approach is needed.
“Gambling is a complex issue and as such warrants a multi-agency solution.
“Following a joint All Party Group session on gambling harm, myself and chairpersons of related APGs agreed that collaboration from both the Ministers of Education and Health is crucial in the development of comprehensive and effective gambling policy.
“The population in Northern Ireland are at significantly higher risk of gambling addiction than their counterparts elsewhere on these islands.
“As such, the Executive cannot run the risk of missing the opportunity now to make gambling laws as robust as they need to be.
“Focus on public awareness programmes within the school curriculum and access to specialised gambling treatment services within our health system is key in preventing and tackling this problem.
“I hope Minister Hargey will take this request on board and pursue cross-departmental engagement going forward,” he concluded.
