New Gambling Regulation Bill Passed in Ireland
By Shadrack Kairu
With the passage of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 in October 2024, Ireland has completely revamped its gambling laws. The bill establishes the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), an independent agency with wide-reaching authority to enforce strict standards across all gambling activities, whether in-person or online.
Supported by a significant €9.1 million budget for 2025, including €4 million specifically allocated to advanced digital systems, GRAI is well-equipped to oversee activities at both physical and Irish online casinos.
This comprehensive legislation is aimed at creating a balanced approach, allowing gambling freedom but imposing necessary restrictions to tackle addiction, illegal activity, and exploitation. Through licensing mandates, advertising limitations, and enhanced protections for consumers, GRAI’s role is clear: foster a safer, more transparent gambling environment.
Here’s a breakdown of how this law is going to change the gambling landscape in Ireland—everything from licensing and ads to consumer protection and penalties.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland
At the core of these changes lies the GRAI, tasked with developing a licensing system that strikes a careful balance: making it easier for reputable operators to obtain licenses while clamping down on unauthorized gambling entities. Led by CEO Designate Anne Marie Caulfield, GRAI is initially prioritizing the licensing phase, setting up a rigorous yet efficient structure for legitimate operators.
With this phased approach, GRAI is positioning itself as the backbone of responsible gambling in Ireland, ensuring all activities align with public safety and fairness. “We will have a phased introduction of our functions, with a focus on licensing initially,” Caulfield confirmed.
Licensing and compliance
Licensing is the backbone of GRAI’s operations, ensuring that only operators who meet stringent standards can run gambling services in Ireland. Under the new rules, any entity offering gambling services—whether directly or through advertising—must secure a GRAI license.
Beyond direct operators, the bill introduces a B2B licensing model, meaning service providers that supply software or other products for gambling now need licenses too. This dual approach reflects GRAI’s emphasis on a transparent, well-regulated industry where every player follows the same rules.
Caulfield, as CEO, is spearheading this licensing effort. Her commitment to a structured, phased implementation is a breath of fresh air compared to Ireland’s old regulatory system, which was fragmented and struggled to keep up with the rapidly evolving gambling sector.
National Gambling Exclusion Register
A game-changer in this new law is the creation of the National Gambling Exclusion Register, which provides a straightforward way for individuals to take control. Anyone struggling with gambling can register to block themselves from all licensed services in the country, keeping temptations at bay with a single step. This isn’t just lip service—it’s a real, accessible solution designed with simplicity in mind.
People who register won’t have to pay a fee, and their information is handled with strict confidentiality, protecting their privacy. Besides the register, GRAI is building partnerships with treatment providers to offer a support network for those impacted by gambling, reinforcing that this law isn’t just about control; it’s about community health.
Clamping down on advertising
One of the standout changes in this bill is GRAI’s new power over gambling ads. The law introduces strict limits on when and where gambling ads can show up, with a special focus on protecting young people and those more vulnerable to gambling risks.
Ads are now restricted to specific times, keeping them mostly out of sight of audiences who shouldn’t be exposed. On top of that, GRAI can control the frequency, duration, and placement of ads to prevent the onslaught of marketing that often overwhelms users.
Beyond just setting boundaries, GRAI has enforcement powers to take down illegal advertising from unlicensed operators. If an unlicensed entity tries to promote its services, GRAI can seek court orders to block it.
What effect will the GRAI have on the gambling landscape in Ireland
With GRAI up and running, Ireland is launching a new era in gambling oversight, making the system as much a public health initiative as it is a regulatory framework. James Browne, Ireland’s Minister of State at the Department of Justice, put it bluntly, saying, “After years of meticulous planning and collaboration, we’re implementing a framework that not only modernizes our gambling regulations but directly addresses the rise of digital gambling.”
For industry operators, this law comes with a new level of accountability. Those who don’t comply face penalties ranging from heavy fines to potential jail time, especially for serious violations by unlicensed operators. This hardline approach is GRAI’s way of saying there’s zero tolerance for rogue operators who exploit vulnerable customers or dodge fair taxation.
Ireland’s new Social Impact Fund is another critical piece of the puzzle. This fund, paid for by a levy on operators, supports initiatives like educational programs and problem-gambling treatment. It will also power campaigns to raise awareness and support organizations that provide crucial assistance to those struggling with problem gambling.
Setting the Bar for Future Regulation
Ireland’s new gambling legislation isn’t just a national milestone; it could influence regulation across Europe. With a focus on shielding vulnerable populations, setting clear operational boundaries, and introducing proactive measures like the National Gambling Exclusion Register, Ireland is leading the way on responsible gambling reform.
As GRAI adapts and responds to new trends, it’s set to evolve with the industry. The agency’s ability to update regulations to match the shifting digital landscape will be key to maintaining a safe, fair gambling environment. With a forward-looking stance, GRAI could become a benchmark for effective regulation, providing a model that other regions might adopt.
Through tight oversight, strict penalties, and a commitment to public welfare, Ireland’s gambling industry is stepping into a new era—one built on safety, fairness, and accountability. Ireland’s approach now serves as a playbook for responsible regulation, showing that when it comes to gambling, there’s no room for compromise on integrity or public health.