How will the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland affect Irish gamblers?

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The newly-reformed GRAI (Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland) is set to take control of the gambling industry, deciding who will get licences to operate in both online casino, sports betting and lottery in Ireland.

As the UK gambling industry is set to be worth a staggering £7bn, the Irish regulator wants in (Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann - otherwise known as GRAI) and it has been created to keep an eye on new rules, with action to be taking place from today.

Coming into force under the recently enacted Gambling Regulation Act, the authority is looking to regulate a variety of issues. Advertising and sponsorships will be restricted, and protecting children and problem gamblers is also high on the list of priorities.

A social impact fund, which has been industry-funded, is designed to support educational measures and problem gambling treatments. New laws mean incentives like free bets, VIP treatment, free credit and hospitality are now banned.

Adverts on television and radio, highlighting gambling products, are prohibited between 5:30am and 9pm, whilst social media advertising is also restricted. Adult customers must now ‘opt-in’ in order to receive online adverts and other inducements.

The regulator is set to keep an eye on the new regulations, receiving approximately £7.6m in 2025, with comprehensive legislation being put in place for the first time since 1956.

For children, gambling will be prohibited and - in most cases - kids won’t be allowed onto the premises to gamble. 

Companies cannot provide clothing with gambling branding to those under 18, and sponsorship of events or organisations involving minors will not be tolerated.

The law offers support to gambling addicts, such as the banning of credit cards and credit facilities alongside ATMS in gambling locations.

The Economic & Social Research Institute estimated that there are 130,000 problem gamblers in Ireland, as the understanding of the damage that gambling can cause has shifted.

The new Act replaces existing legislation, as the previous situation appeared to be a patchwork of laws with many outdated and failing to cover newer forms of gambling; bookmakers that are already licensed and regulated need not worry.

However, following 17 years of planning and the involvement of six successive ministers, the new regime and regulations have been created. Aware of the issues that conventional gambling can cause, many problems have previously been overlooked.

Various sports clubs and charities may rely on local lotteries and tombolas, which now fall under the new rules. Licences for larger lotteries can be acquired through the regulator, as credit unions seek assurances over car and cash draws.

Numerous issues were previously highlighted to senior politicians, with various amendments made to the legislation, aiming to cover these concerns before the regulator was passed.

The regulator will address measures and impose strict prohibitions on illegal or criminal gambling activity, including potential prison sentences, with the primary concern being that gambling is merely pushed underground.

The Irish Bookmakers’ Association, which represents virtually all betting shops and brands in the country, flagged black-market gambling potential. Over-regulation or poorly constructed regulations may drive customers underground, but there’s no way of predicting the future.

To learn more, visit our responsible gambling at casinos page which also offers resources and advice on where to seek help if needed.