Ireland's New Gambling Landscape: A Sharper Focus on Safer Gambling Challenges
Here at Betsmart Towers, the recent launch of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) and the enactment of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 have got us thinking, particularly about safer gambling. For years, Ireland's gambling laws have been a bit of a mishmash. Now, with the GRAI's establishment in March 2025, and the Act being rolled out, a new era of regulation is dawning – one with a clear spotlight on player protection.
This is a significant shift for operators, particularly those based in the UK who've traditionally had a good foothold in the Irish market. Whilst the GRAI are looking for a streamlined and modern approach, the changes present some hefty compliance challenges, and many are rooted in the regulator's determination to tackle problem gambling.
One of the first hurdles is the new licensing setup
Operators wanting to offer services to Irish punters must get specific licences for different activities, like betting, gaming, and the lottery, both online and in physical shops. The GRAI's proposed tiered application fee system, based on how much you turn over each year, adds another layer. Now the consultation period is done, operators need to get ready for these costs, as well as making annual contributions to the Social Impact Fund (SIF).
The SIF is a key part
It's worth drilling down into this. It shows the GRAI are serious about tackling problem gambling, and the fact they've launched consultations to get feedback from people with lived experience, addiction services, and affected families is a telling sign. It's a clear indication that responsible gambling is under the microscope as never before. The consultations highlight how the GRAI are trying to direct funding where it's most needed.
If you want to have your say on how the SIF will be used to address gambling-related harm, the consultation closes on May 15th.
Those contributions to the SIF will help fund research, training, and treatment programs, showing they're taking a proactive approach to cutting down gambling-related harm. The GRAI's been highlighting research suggesting that problem gambling rates in Ireland might be higher than previously thought - a study in October 2023 indicated that 3.3% of the population may be affected. This underscores the urgency of the GRAI's mission and the importance of operators taking their responsibilities seriously.
Advertising restrictions are another thing to bear in mind
The GRAI's putting a block on gambling adverts between 5:30 AM and 9:00 PM on TV, radio, and on-demand audio-visual media, which will mean a rethink of marketing strategies. The regulator's control over where adverts are shown, how often, and which events they're linked to, limits what operators can do and means they need to find other ways to get the word out. The research that flagged links between early exposure to gambling and later-life problems is likely a key driver here.
Increased focus on looking after customers
On top of that, the increased focus on looking after customers brings in more operational headaches. Mandatory affordability checks, alongside "Know Your Customer" procedures, mean operators must check customers' financial situation before taking bets. Beefing up self-exclusion schemes and making sure operators step in when betting patterns are concerning means investing in monitoring systems and properly trained staff.
For UK-based operators, getting to grips with these changes is essential if they want to keep their Irish customers. Some might decide to pull out, but those who stay must make compliance a priority to avoid big fines (up to €20 million or 10% of turnover) and maybe even losing their licence.
Despite the challenges, the fact that the GRAI are talking to people in the industry suggests they want to work together. This gives operators a chance to help shape future regulations and create a sustainable gambling scene in Ireland.
To sum up...
The GRAI's arrival means the Irish gambling market is growing up. Operators need to get on board by putting compliance first, investing in responsible gambling, and working with the regulator to get through this new landscape. The stakes are high, and safer gambling is clearly top of the agenda.
Navigating these challenges can seem daunting, but we're here to help. If you're an operator looking to discuss how these changes impact your business, get in touch with us at Betsmart Consulting – we're happy to chat. Contact us today with any queries.
Written by Louisa Clark