Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill Passes, Paving Way for New Authority and Stricter Oversight

The long-awaited Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 has been successfully passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas, marking a significant step forward in overhauling Ireland's gambling laws.

The new legislation, which aims to modernize the country's gambling framework, was welcomed by Minister of State for Law Reform, James Browne TD, who hailed it as a "landmark" achievement.

At the heart of the Bill is the establishment of a new independent body, Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, or the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). This authority will oversee the implementation of a modernized licensing and regulatory system for both in-person and online gambling, reflecting the growing prevalence of digital gambling and the need for up-to-date regulations.

Key provisions of the Bill include the creation of a National Gambling Exclusion Register, new rules for gambling advertising, and the establishment of a Social Impact Fund to support campaigns, education, and treatment for problem gambling. The legislation also introduces strict measures to curb illegal gambling, including custodial sentences for violations of unlicensed gambling. The GRAI will have the power to dictate the times, locations, and events where gambling ads can be displayed or broadcast.

Expressing his excitement at the Bill’s passage, Minister Browne said, "I am delighted to see the passage of this long-anticipated legislation, the result of tireless efforts by myself and a dedicated team of officials. This Bill establishes a simplified and coherent licensing framework that reflects modern gambling practices, especially given the rise of digital gambling and advertising."

Browne further emphasized the Bill’s focus on public health, saying, "At its core, this legislation is a public health initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, including young people, from gambling-related harm." He added that once the Gambling Regulatory Authority becomes fully operational, it will possess the enforcement powers needed to ensure compliance with the new licensing rules.

In the lead-up to the Bill’s finalization, the government consulted extensively with a wide array of stakeholders, including industry representatives, charity organizations, and experts in problem gambling. Those affected by gambling harms were also consulted. The approach was informed by a comprehensive study on gambling behaviors in Ireland conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).

The GRAI will be comprised of a seven-member authority, and the Department of Justice has already established a Programme Board to ensure the simultaneous progression of both the legislation and the practical preparations needed for the authority to function effectively. Anne Marie Caulfield, the CEO Designate of GRAI, has been leading these operational preparations.

Commenting on the significance of the Bill’s approval, Caulfield said, "The passage of the Gambling Regulation Bill is a major milestone in establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. Our phased rollout will begin with a focus on licensing, ensuring that operators comply with the new framework while addressing problem gambling. We are committed to working with stakeholders as we build a regulatory regime that protects the public."

In addition to regulatory oversight, the Bill introduces measures to protect gambling participants and funds research into gambling harms through the Social Impact Fund. As part of Budget 2025, the GRAI will receive €9.1 million, with €4 million specifically allocated to invest in ICT systems to support its work.

Minister Browne concluded by recognizing the importance of responsible gambling and the challenges the new Bill seeks to address. "Many hold strong views on gambling, and this Bill is designed to tackle the challenges of responsible gambling in modern Ireland. It balances the freedom to gamble with safeguards against addiction, providing clarity for both operators and consumers."

He also praised Ms. Caulfield for her leadership in preparing the groundwork for the authority while the Bill made its way through the legislative process.

As of the end of September 2024, a total of €3.337 million has already been spent in preparation for establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, signaling the government's commitment to rolling out the new regulations efficiently and effectively. 

By fLEXI tEAM