In a significant legislative milestone, Ireland has successfully passed the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, which has now moved through both Houses of the Oireachtas. This critical legislation heralds the creation of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) and sets a modern and comprehensive licensing and regulatory framework for both in-person and online gambling environments.

Establishment of a new regulatory authority:

The legislation facilitates the establishment of Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, or the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. This independent statutory body is tasked with administering a newly devised, simplified, and efficient licensing system that reflects the dynamics of contemporary gambling, including the burgeoning sector of digital gambling and advertising.

Minister of State at the Department of Justice, James Browne TD, shared his enthusiasm for the legislation’s passage, stating, “After many years of meticulous planning and collaboration, we are proud to introduce a legislative framework that not only modernizes our gambling regulations but also directly addresses the expansion of digital gambling.”

As Gov.ie published in an official release, a pivotal aspect of the new law is the establishment of the National Gambling Exclusion Register alongside stringent restrictions on gambling advertisements, which are now limited to specific times of the day to minimize exposure to vulnerable demographics.

The bill also encompasses rigorous legal measures against illegal gambling operations, introducing potential custodial sentences for severe breaches. These provisions underscore the bill’s underlying public health intent, aimed at shielding the community from gambling-related risks.

Minister Browne elaborated on these protections, emphasizing their importance in safeguarding young and vulnerable individuals from the allure and potential harm of unchecked gambling.

Strategic preparations and anticipated developments:

The government has stated that this structure will enable the GRAI to begin its operations immediately on a staged basis once its board has been appointed. As part of Ireland’s budget for 2025, announced on 1 October, the Authority is set to receive €9.1 million, which includes €4 million dedicated to ICT capital investments.

Anne Marie Caulfield, the CEO Designate of the GRAI, detailed the extensive preparatory work completed and the strategic plan for a phased rollout of the authority’s functions, focusing initially on licensing. “While we have a lot of preparatory work done, we will have a phased introduction of our functions, with a focus on licensing initially. As CEO designate of the new Authority, I am determined to ensure that licensees operate in accordance with the legislation while also fulfilling our mandate to establish safeguards to address problem gambling. We are also committed to engaging with stakeholders as we establish this new regulatory regime for Ireland’s gambling and gaming sector.”

The legislation’s enactment is poised to significantly transform Ireland’s approach to gambling regulation, with a comprehensive plan to bring the entire act into force within the next year. This robust framework is designed to balance the liberty to gamble with necessary safeguards to prevent gambling addiction and protect the public.

As Ireland embarks on this regulatory reform, the Gambling Regulation Bill stands as a robust commitment to responsible and ethical gambling practices in the 21st century. It aims to set a benchmark for gambling regulation, not just in Ireland but across Europe, balancing gambling freedoms with stringent protective measures against gambling harm.