Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill Approved

Minister of State at the Department of Justice, responsible for Law Reform, James Browne TD, has welcomed the successful passage of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 through both Houses of the Oireachtas.

This landmark legislation establishes a new independent statutory body, Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), and introduces a modern licensing and regulatory framework for both in-person and online gambling.

Bill Highlights:

• Creation of the National Gambling Exclusion Register.
• New regulations on gambling advertising.
• Establishment of a Social Impact Fund to support awareness campaigns, education, and problem gambling treatment.
• Measures aimed at addressing black market operators.
• Custodial sentences for unlicensed gambling violations.
• GRAI to prescribe the times, place and events where gambling advertising can be broadcast, displayed or published.

In a government press release, Minister Browne expressed his enthusiasm for the Bill’s passage, acknowledging the years of work behind it:

“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.

At its core, this legislation is a public health initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, including young people, from gambling-related harm.

Once the Gambling Regulatory Authority is operational, it will have the enforcement powers needed to ensure compliance with its licensing regulations.”

Browne highlighted extensive consultations with industry representatives, the charity sector, professionals in the area of problem gambling, and those directly affected by gambling harm. The Bill’s approach has been informed by a comprehensive ESRI study on gambling behaviors and perceptions in Ireland.

The GRAI will consist of a seven-member authority, and a Programme Board has been established within the Department of Justice to ensure parallel progress on both the legislation and operational preparations. Anne Marie Caulfield, the appointed CEO Designate, is leading these efforts.

Caulfield commented on the significance of the Bill:

“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.”

The Bill introduces additional measures to protect participants in gambling and funds research and initiatives addressing gambling harms through the Social Impact Fund. As part of Budget 2025, the GRAI will receive €9.1 million, including €4 million for ICT investment.

Minister Browne added:

“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 congratulated Ms. Caulfield on her preparatory work, which has progressed alongside the Bill’s passage.

As of the end of September 2024, total spending in support of establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland amounts to €3.337 million.

Natasha Lyndon

Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.