Ireland Introduces New Gaming Regulatory Body, Set to Implement Significant Overhaul
Ireland's gambling landscape is taking a significant leap forward with the launch of the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), effective as of this week. This newly-formed body will oversee the issuance of licenses to gambling operators and manage the gambling sector within the country.
Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan celebrated this milestone, likening it to the beginning of a "new era" for the country, marking a substantial step towards updating outdated gambling regulations and bringing legislation into the present day.
The legal basis for the GRA's establishment was the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which began its journey in October. This legislation aims to improve protection for at-risk gamblers, although critics caution it could potentially destabilize specific sectors such as horse racing and the poker scene due to the rigorous new regulations.
Among the other alterations this legislation introduces are stricter television advertising hours, tighter betting limits, and increased funding for addiction research and treatment.
details of the Act reveal a stronger focus on promoting responsible gambling measures, including adjustments to advertising hours during peak youth exposure and establishing a national gambling exclusion register to safeguard vulnerable individuals. Additionally, the legislation sets up a licensing framework for all types of gambling services, which will impact both traditional horse racing operators and online poker platforms.
The GRAI (Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland) will introduce a phased licensing approach, with betting licenses available first, followed by online gaming commencing in early 2026, and licenses for charities and business-to-business operations by 2027. The GRAI will also oversee an annual contribution from operators to a Social Impact Fund which will support gambling education, research, and treatment services.
The GRAI will work on establishing a code of practice for inducements and collaborate with educational institutions on gambling education initiatives. Moreover, the GRAI is collaborating with Deloitte to develop a national register to bolster existing voluntary self-exclusion systems, providing better protection for at-risk and vulnerable individuals.
Ultimately, the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 aims to establish a comprehensive framework that balances the needs of the gambling industry with consumer protection, while promoting responsible gambling practices and minimizing harm to vulnerable populations.
- The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) will regulate operators of casino-and-gambling in Ireland, starting from 2024, as a part of the new era in the country's gambling landscape.
- Despite the 2024 Gambling Regulation Act's potential to tighten regulations and improve protection for at-risk gamblers, critics worry it could affect sectors like horse racing and poker.
- The new legislation introduces stricter television advertising hours, tighter betting limits, and increased funding for addiction research and treatment, all aimed at promoting responsible gambling measures.
4.The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) will introduce a phased licensing approach, with betting licenses available first, followed by online gaming in early 2026, and licenses for charities and business-to-business operations by 2027.
