Ireland has taken a significant step forward in overhauling its gambling legislation with the passage of the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 through the Oireachtas. The bill, which has now completed its journey through both houses of parliament, marks a pivotal moment for the regulation of gambling in the country. It sets the foundation for the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), an independent statutory body tasked with overseeing both online and in-person gambling activities.
Comprehensive Reforms for the Industry
The new legislation represents a comprehensive approach to modernizing gambling regulation, introducing a streamlined and robust framework that reflects the complexities of the modern gambling environment. It consolidates various outdated laws, such as the Totalisator Act 1929, the Betting Act 1931, and the Gaming and Lottery Act 1956, into a single, coherent system. This move is expected to provide clarity for both operators and consumers while reinforcing the government’s commitment to public health and responsible gambling.
James Browne TD, Minister of State at the Department of Justice with responsibility for Law Reform, expressed his satisfaction at the bill’s passage, stating: “This legislation is a public health measure aimed at protecting our citizens from gambling harm, including younger people and those more vulnerable in our communities.”
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Gambling Regulation Bill introduces several key measures designed to strengthen oversight and safeguard public welfare. Among these is the creation of the National Gambling Exclusion Register, which will allow individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling services. This initiative is aimed at curbing problem gambling and offering support to those affected by addiction. Additionally, the bill introduces tight restrictions on gambling advertisements, prohibiting their broadcast between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., while giving the GRAI powers to regulate the timing, placement, and frequency of ads across media platforms, including social media and traditional outlets.
One of the most notable reforms is the establishment of a Social Impact Fund, which will be financed by contributions from licensed gambling operators. The fund will be used to support awareness-raising initiatives, educational campaigns, and treatment services aimed at addressing problem gambling. This is part of the bill’s broader focus on reducing the societal harm caused by excessive gambling.
To combat illegal gambling, the legislation includes stringent measures against black market operators, with explicit prohibitions and penalties for criminal activities related to unlicensed gambling. These measures include the possibility of significant custodial sentences for those found guilty of illegal practices.
The Road Ahead for the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland
As part of the new regulatory landscape, the GRAI will be established as an independent body with wide-ranging powers to license and regulate gambling operators. Ms. Anne Marie Caulfield, who has been appointed CEO-designate of the authority, is leading the preparatory work to ensure a smooth transition. She emphasized the phased introduction of the authority’s functions, with a particular focus on licensing in the initial stages. “We will ensure that licensees operate in accordance with the legislation while fulfilling our mandate to address problem gambling,” Caulfield stated.
In addition to the operational framework, the authority will be supported by a team of directors and staff, with recruitment already underway to fill key positions. As of the end of September 2024, €3.337 million had been spent in support of establishing the GRAI, with further investment earmarked in Budget 2025, including €9.1 million for the authority, €4 million of which will be dedicated to ICT infrastructure.
A Balanced Approach to Gambling Regulation
Minister Browne emphasized that the bill strikes a balance between allowing people to gamble responsibly and protecting vulnerable individuals from the risks of addiction. The bill provides clear guidelines for operators and ensures that consumers are afforded the protections they need. “This bill is designed to meet the challenges of gambling responsibly in 21st-century Ireland,” the Minister noted, underscoring the significance of the bill’s passage.
The next steps include the enactment of the legislation, which will then be implemented on a phased basis. The GRAI will be fully operational within the next year, ensuring that the Irish gambling sector operates within a modern, well-regulated framework that prioritizes public health.
Source:
“Minister Browne welcomes passing of historic legislation to streamline, strengthen and modernise gambling regulation“, gov.ie, October 16, 2024.