Ireland Sets Up Gambling Regulatory Authority

Ireland’s government has just launched the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) taking a big step to update the country’s gambling laws. This new independent body started work on March 5 and has the job to supervise and license gambling activities across the country.

Ireland Launches GRAI to Overhaul Gambling Laws and Protect Consumers

Setting up GRAI is part of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which takes the place of old gambling laws, some going back to the 1930s. This new system aims to create a clearer and more organized gambling scene tackling issues about problem gambling while making sure gaming practices are fair and responsible.

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has picked a seven-member board to head the authority, with Paul Quinn as Chair. The board includes experts in media, finance, law public health, and addiction treatment. These people, along with CEO Anne-Marie Caulfield, will manage how GRAI puts its rules into action and enforces them.

GRAI’s job is to control all types of gambling such as online and in-person betting, gaming, and lotteries (except the National Lottery). It can also give out licenses, make sure rules are followed, and bring in ways to protect gamblers those at risk like children and people struggling with gambling addiction.

A main goal of the new authority is to reduce the dangers linked to gambling problems. To do this, the GRAI will put into action several new steps, including setting up a National Gambling Exclusion Register. This allows people battling addiction to choose to take themselves out of gambling activities.

Also, the authority will be in charge of running a Social Impact Fund, which gambling companies will pay into. This fund will back research, training, and education efforts to prevent gambling harm and boost public knowledge.

New limits on gambling ads are coming into effect. The law bans gambling ads on TV, radio, and on-demand platforms from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM. This move aims to protect young viewers and people at risk of gambling addiction.

Minister O’Callaghan Calls GRAI Launch a ‘New Era’ in Irish Gambling Regulation

Minister O’Callaghan said the creation of the GRAI marks a “new era” in how Ireland regulates gambling. He stressed the need to balance consumer freedom with protective measures. O’Callaghan also thanked former ministers Helen McEntee and James Browne for their work on the law.

The Department of Health backs this plan pledging to work with the GRAI to cut down on gambling-related problems. Health experts have long pushed for tougher rules pointing out the flood of gambling ads and the growing number of people struggling with gambling addiction.

The government will give €9.1 million ($9.8 million) to help the authority run in 2025, with €4 million ($4.3 million) set aside for tech setup. This money will help to set up ways to enforce rules, process license requests, and make sure everyone follows the new regulations.

As the GRAI gains its regulatory powers, it plans to add more rules over time. The first license applications should open this year. This marks a slow shift to a controlled gambling scene in Ireland.

As the authority begins its work, people in the industry, health experts, and lawmakers will watch its effects  They will focus on how it prevents gambling problems and protects customers.