“This change, if enacted, could however, see the swift opening of the very first casino in Belfast or another location, with various perceived benefits to the wider economy.” For years, those with an interest have been freely able to visit ‘online’ casinos despite not being able to visit one in person. “This undoubtedly marks a general shift in attitudes towards gambling here, as does the support for sports bookmakers and betting shops to open and operate on a Sunday. In particular, it found that 60% of those who responded to the consultation supported a rule change to allow casinos in Northern Ireland, according to Matthew Howse, Partner at law firm Eversheds Sutherland in Belfast.
The move, announced by Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, comes in the wake of a public consultation on the issue which unearthed a thirst for a relaxation of what many consider antiquated laws for the first time in 35 years. The prospect of Northern Ireland playing host to its first-ever casino has taken a step closer following news of a shake-up in gambling laws.
