【Casino】Ireland's new gambling regulator starts to make changes

With the commencement of key provisions of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 today (5 March), the newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is now operational on a statutory basis.

This new body will oversee all gambling activities in the country, both online and in-person, replacing outdated gambling laws with a modern regulatory framework.

The establishment of this authority is part of a broader effort to bring clarity and structure to Ireland’s gambling industry. The authority will be responsible for issuing licenses, regulating operators, and enforcing compliance with new laws.

This move is in response to growing concerns over problem gambling and the risks associated with unregulated gambling activities.

The authority’s main focus will be on balancing the freedom to gamble with protections against gambling-related harms, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children.

GRAI leadership and structure

Minister O’Callaghan has appointed seven members to the newly formed regulatory body.

The members, who officially commence their roles today, include Paul Quinn (chair), Celine Craig, Marion Kelly, Rita Purcell, David Hickson, Michael McGrath and Dr. Colin O’Driscoll (ordinary member).

These individuals, in collaboration with CEO Anne-Marie Caulfield, will oversee the phased implementation of the authority’s operations.

“I greatly welcome the appointment of the seven-member authority and the establishment of Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann (GRAI),” said Caulfield.

“I look forward to fulfilling our mandate and delivering a safe, well-regulated and transparent sector, with consumer protection at its core.”

The authority is now expected to establish a structured licensing framework, with initial applications for some licences anticipated to open within the coming year.

Appointments to the authority will initially be for three or four years, with the possibility of a second four-year term.

This staggered approach is likely aimed at ensuring continuity in governance and allowing for an evolving regulatory framework that can adapt to industry changes.

Scope and responsibilities of the Gambling Regulatory Authority

The GRAI is tasked with the comprehensive oversight of all gambling activities, including:

– Licensing and regulation:Issuing and managing licences for operators involved in betting, gaming, and lotteries.

– Consumer protection:Ensuring gambling activities are conducted fairly and transparently, protecting consumers from fraudulent or harmful practices.

– Problem gambling mitigation:Implementing measures to reduce gambling-related harm, including safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals.

– Market oversight:Monitoring compliance with new regulations and enforcing penalties where necessary.

– Industry standards and best practices:Establishing guidelines to ensure responsible gambling practices.

By consolidating gambling regulation under a single authority, the Irish government aims to streamline processes, eliminate regulatory loopholes, and create a more controlled environment for both operators and consumers.

The authority has been allocated €9.1m in funding for the current year, signalling the government’s commitment to ensuring it has the necessary resources to function effectively.

The budget will likely be directed towards setting up enforcement mechanisms, licensing processes, public awareness campaigns, and staff recruitment.

As previously reported, the GRAI will work directly with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) in creating certain policies.

In comments to NEXT.io, the ASA explained: “Similar to the way that ASA collaborates with other statutory agencies and within a co-regulatory framework, we will support the GRAI in developing the new standards and their enforcement at the relevant time.”

Additionally, the regulator has launched its official website, www.grai.ie, which will serve as a primary platform for providing updates, regulatory timelines, and industry guidance.

A focus on responsible gambling regulation

Minister O’Callaghan highlighted that the establishment of the authority represents a “new era for the regulation of gambling in the Irish State.”

He acknowledged the efforts of former ministers Helen McEntee and James Browne in shaping the legislation that led to the Gambling Regulation Act 2024.

The Act is designed to modernise Ireland’s gambling laws to reflect current technological and societal trends. With online gambling growing rapidly, a strong regulatory framework is necessary to ensure that gambling remains fair, safe, and transparent.

The phased rollout of the authority’s legislative powers suggests the government is taking a measured approach, ensuring that regulations are implemented effectively without disrupting the gambling industry.

The initial licensing process is expected to start within the year.