Ireland Passes Landmark Bill to Strengthen Gambling Regulation

Similar to the UK, Ireland is going through major changes in its gambling regulations. This is possible under a proposal called the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, which supports the development of a robust framework regarding the gambling sector that combats harm and problem gambling, fights against the black market and notably, develops an independent statutory gambling body.

The Bill Will Help Protect People from Gambling Harm

On Wednesday, James Browne TD, the Minister of State at the Department of Justice, welcomed the passage of the aforementioned bill through both Houses of the Oireachtas.  The next move of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 would be its enactment. This process will enable the establishment of Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).

GRAI will help usher in a new modern era of robust gambling regulations, strengthening the framework for the online and retail gambling sectors. The new regulatory body will consist of seven members. Not unexpectedly, lawmakers predicted the required financing for GRAI, with the body expected to receive €9.1 million ($9.9 million) next year, as marked in the 2025 Budget.

Browne shared his excitement to see the long-awaited bill finally pass. He explained that the proposal represents years of work and pointed to the robust gambling framework it establishes. According to Browne, the bill is also a “public health measure aimed at protecting our citizens from gambling harm, including younger people and those more vulnerable in our communities.”

“I am truly delighted to welcome the passage of this long-awaited legislation, which is the result of many years of hard work by myself and a team of dedicated Departmental officials.“

James Browne TD, Minister of State at the Department of Justice in Ireland

The Proposal Is Backed by Research and Consultations

Browne spoke about the extensive efforts required for the creation of the gambling bill. He revealed that consultations with the gambling sector, including charities, problem gambling experts and other stakeholders helped shape the proposal that will bring meaningful change to Ireland’s gambling sector.

Additionally, Browne explained: “We have worked hard to get this right and the position taken in the proposed legislation has been robustly reinforced by the findings of a comprehensive ESRI study on problem gambling, gambling behaviors and the perception of gambling in Ireland.” According to the Minister of State, GRAI will play a key role in the enforcement of the rules, while ensuring operators comply with their license conditions.

In addition to the establishment of GRAI, the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 will help set up a National Gambling Exclusion Register that is expected to play a key role in the fight against problem gambling. Restrictions on gambling advertising are also included in the proposal, as well as campaigns that seek to educate and raise awareness of the dangers of gambling.

Just as important is the part of the bill that seeks to combat the illegal gambling sector in Ireland. Enhanced penalties, monitoring and control are expected to reduce the number of people using the services of black market operators.