Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority Officially Launches

A new chapter for gambling in Ireland has begun.

With the launch of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), the country’s outdated gambling laws are finally being replaced.

This marks a significant shift towards a stricter, more transparent, and player-focused regulatory framework, designed to curb gambling-related harm.

As the GRAI assumes full operational control, it will oversee compliance, introduce new advertising restrictions, and implement a national self-exclusion system.

Ireland’s New Gambling Regulator Takes Full Control Amid Sweeping Industry Reforms

Key Points:

1. Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRAI) is now fully operational

   • Established under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, GRAI replaces Ireland’s outdated 1931 Betting Act.

2. New restrictions include a gambling ad ban between 5:30 AM and 9:00 PM

   • GRAI will enforce strict advertising rules and monitor compliance in collaboration with the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland.

3. A national self-exclusion register and Social Impact Fund will be introduced

   • The regulator will develop a self-exclusion system and oversee funding for gambling harm research and education.

A Fully Operational Regulator with a Seven-Member Board

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has officially begun its supervisory role as of March 5, 2024.

The regulator was established under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which modernizes the country’s gambling laws and replaces the outdated Betting Act of 1931.

Anne Marie Caulfield, who was designated CEO in 2022, will lead the authority alongside a seven-member board, chaired by Paul Quinn, the former CEO of the Irish Procurement Office.

The board includes:

• Celine Craig – Former CEO of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (Media & Broadcasting)
• Marion Kelly – CEO of the Irish Banking Culture Board (Financial Oversight)
• Rita Purcell – Deputy CEO of the Health Products Regulatory Authority (Consumer Protection)
• Dr. Colin O’Driscoll – Senior psychologist, HSE Mid-West Addiction Services (Responsible Gaming & Public Health)
• Michael McGrath SC – Senior Counsel (Legal Affairs)
• David Hickson – Financial Controller at the Community Foundation of Ireland (Finance & Compliance)

GRAI’s Mission: Protecting Players & Enforcing Compliance

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan emphasized the importance of the regulator:
“Today marks a new era for gambling regulation in Ireland. The establishment of the GRAI will modernize our gambling laws while prioritizing player protection, especially for vulnerable groups and minors.”

Key Responsibilities of GRAI:

• National Self-Exclusion Register – Allowing individuals to block access to gambling platforms and opt-out of gambling promotions.
• Social Impact Fund – Similar to the upcoming UK gambling levy, funding harm prevention, education, and addiction treatment.
• Advertising Oversight – Enforcing a gambling ad blackout between 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM on TV, radio, and on-demand platforms.

Budget & Investment:

• The regulator has received €9.1 million in funding, including €4 million dedicated to ICT infrastructure for secure data management and enforcement tools.

New Restrictions on Gambling Advertising & Player Protections

The GRAI will strictly regulate gambling ads, ensuring operators follow new industry standards.

Key Advertising Rules:

• No gambling ads on TV, radio, or streaming services from 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
• No advertising targeting minors or vulnerable individuals.
• No misleading claims, such as gambling as a solution to financial problems.

The Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland (ASA Ireland) will assist in monitoring compliance and penalizing violations.

Industry Impact:

• Operators must adjust marketing strategies to comply with the ad blackout period and responsible gaming policies.
• Failure to comply could result in license suspensions, fines, or criminal penalties.

Regulatory Oversight Expands Beyond Advertising

What’s Next for GRAI?

• Strengthening gambling site monitoring to prevent unlicensed operators from targeting Irish players.
• Developing robust consumer protection laws to ensure fair gameplay and responsible gambling practices.
• Overseeing a centralized licensing system to streamline compliance for operators.

CEO Anne Marie Caulfield commented on the regulator’s mandate:
“We aim to create a safe, well-regulated gambling sector with consumer protection at its core. Transparency, fairness, and harm reduction will guide our every decision.”

A New Era of Gambling Regulation in Ireland

The launch of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland marks a turning point in the country’s gambling industry.

With stricter regulations, enhanced consumer protections, and a commitment to responsible gambling, the Irish market is entering a more controlled and transparent phase.

As the GRAI rolls out its new policies, operators must adapt to ensure full compliance—or face strict penalties.

With the regulator’s authority now fully operational, the future of Ireland’s gambling industry will be defined by accountability, fairness, and responsible gaming.