The National Lottery Regulator is urging adults not to buy scratchcards for children this Christmas.
It follows a mystery shopper survey by the body that saw almost 3 in 10 stores willing to sell the gambling product to under 18s.
Almost three quarters, or 72% of Irish shops, visited during the exercise refused to sell scratchcards to underage test purchasers. That's up from 62% in 2018.
The regulator says it underscores the need for tougher measures to curb sales to minors.
Regulator of the National Lottery, Carol Boate, says; "while a popular gifting option at this time of year, National Lottery tickets or scratchcards are not appropriate Christmas gifts for under-18s, no matter how well intentioned the purchaser might be.
We know childhood gambling can lead to a range of harms and increases your chances of experiencing gambling problems as an adult."
Premier Lotteries Ireland, which operates the lotto, has agreed more work is needed but says it has a rigorous retailer compliance policy in place.
