Welcome to the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI)
New regulatory body for Ireland's gambling industry, GRAI, commences operations
The Gambling Regulatory Authority has officially set sail on March 5, 2025, set to oversee all forms of gambling and sports betting in the Emerald Isle. Don't fret, we've got the lowdown on what that means for you!
Taking Charge
Known as the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland [Link in English], this new authority will tackle a range of tasks, from issuing licenses to overseeing gaming in the country. You might wonder how we got here? Well, the Irish government passed a new gambling regulation law last year, repealing some legislation from the 1930s.
Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan, 57, knows the challenges ahead. He aims for the regulatory authority to enlighten operators and consumers, and to balance gambling freedom with protection against addiction in 21st-century Ireland. To achieve this goal, GRAI has enlisted the help of seven experts from fields like finance, addiction treatment, and media.
Mission for the Ages
GRAI's mission is twofold: to minimize problematic gambling and improve the organization of gambling in Ireland. Here's how they plan to do it:
- Self-exclusion Register: GRAI will introduce a national self-exclusion register, giving players the power to ban themselves from specific operators or all gambling activities if they need a break. This measure couples success seen in countries like Germany, Australia, and the UK.
- Social Impact Fund: Gambling companies will contribute to this fund, ensuring resources for research, education, and training to prevent gambling-related harm in the future.
- New Advertising Regulations: Advertising for gambling and sports betting will no longer be allowed on Irish television, radio, or streaming platforms from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The goal? Protecting young and vulnerable viewers.
Costs and Consequences
brace for itThe establishment and operation of the GRAI will carry a hefty price tag for the Irish government. In 2025 alone, they've shelled out 9.1 million EUR for the authority's setup and operation. But hey, a price worth paying for safer gambling, right?
Over the Horizon
The gambling industry is keeping a keen eye on the initial measures taken by the GRAI, as they're expected to impact the market significantly. Watch this space in the coming months as the regulators roll out further regulations and begin the license application process. The future of gambling in Ireland—and beyond—could be about to change!
- The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) aims to enable a balance between gambling freedom and protection against addiction by enlisting the help of seven experts from various fields.
- To minimize problematic gambling and improve the organization of gambling in Ireland, GRAI will introduce a national self-exclusion register, establish a Social Impact Fund, and implement new advertising regulations.
- Despite the significant operational costs estimated for the establishment and operation of GRAI, the Irish government is prepared to pay this price for safer gambling practices and potential positive transformations in the gambling industry.
