Experts warn gambling addiction is on the rise as Wicklow services prepare to tackle growing problem
The Wicklow PeopleBray, Co Wicklow, which has long been synonymous with casinos and seafront slot machine establishments, is at the centre of efforts to prevent and reduce gambling-related harm among young people, with services now available to young people across Wicklow.
The Wicklow Youth Gambling Service was launched by Bray Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force, in conjunction with the East Coast Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, in partnership with Extern Problem Gambling.
Extern warns that early exposure to gambling can enhance a young person’s knowledge of the dangers of gambling and “the potential habit-forming nature”, while fostering resilience from a young age can help prevent future harm and support healthier decision-making.
In the Bray Task Force’s 2025 annual report, the programme highlighted the work being carried out to raise awareness of gambling-related harm among young people.
The Task Force’s gambling programme puts lived experience at the centre of its work, with Tony O’Reilly now delivering talks to young people about his own experience of gambling addiction.
Mr O’Reilly, who lost more than €1 million to gambling addiction, speaks to young people about how gambling harm can grow quietly and how recovery is possible. It states his story is summed up by the words: “Eventually I lost everything.”
His approach has also received a positive response from students, with one saying: “His way of telling his story was very powerful and it has put me off gambling completely.”
Between July 2025 and May 2026, he delivered 40 sessions across County Wicklow, including schools, Traveller centres, sports clubs and community settings, reaching 3,000 young people.
Senior manager at Tiglin, Ger Ganley, said that one in five people who present to the organisation have an addiction to gambling.
He noted that the Rutland Centre has recently had to open a gambling-focused centre in the Midlands due to the “rise of gambling addiction and the major issues it’s causing”.
A total of 431 people came through Tiglin’s doors seeking its wide variety of services, with gambling addiction accounting for a significant number of those seeking help.
“Gambling is an insidious, sneaky, slithery addiction that creeps up and can lead to serious issues,” said Mr Ganley.
While gambling addiction can lead to serious mental health issues, he believes the problem is only going to get worse in Wicklow and nationally unless it is properly addressed.