A helpline for gambling addicts funded by the betting industry and promoted by bookmakers as part of their responsible gambling initiatives has been unmanned for almost a month.

GambleAware, which was operated by an industry body, is one of the most prominent services for gamblers seeking help and its failure has raised concerns that the government is moving too slowly in establishing an independent regulator.

The Times called the helpline a number of times over the last week and no one answered. It directs to a voice mailbox which is full. GambleAware.ie and its phone number is listed on the National Lottery and Paddy Power websites. It is often given out following stories and programmes about those with addiction problems. The website states that it