The High Stakes of Ireland’s First-Ever Gambling Regulation Bill

According to European law experts, the Irish government earmarked €500,000 in 2021 to create and implement a highly anticipated Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRA). With the rapid advancements in online casino technology, ease of access to high-speed internet, and the widespread use of gambling-capable mobile devices, the GRA became a necessity in Ireland.

A spokesperson said:

"As the gambling industry changes, and indeed as the demographics and motivations of its customers change, so must the State’s licensing and regulatory approach."

From the outset, the primary objectives of the GRA were clear:

• Ensuring fair play and best practice business standards for gambling companies
• Installing and monitoring effective, safe gambling protocols
• Ensuring that gambling does not fund or receive funds from organised crime

As the 2023 launch date draws near, it is worth looking at how the online gambling landscape has evolved and what lies ahead for the gambling industry under Ireland’s first-ever gambling regulation bill.

Problem Gambling Lies at the Core of the GRA

Despite the potential for revenue generation and job creation, the GRA and other Irish oversight bodies remain unshaken in their belief that player safety is paramount.

About stringent regulation Labour Senator Marie Sherlock said:

“I think it is only then we will begin to start eroding the power and influence of gambling companies in this country and the conditions upon which children develop problem gambling habits,”

This harsh reaction to online gambling stems from Ireland's terrible youth gaming figures. According to Sherlock, more than 60% of Irish youth have participated in betting or gambling. With more than 3000 of these considered problem gamblers.

prime minister, Micheál Martin, has stated that he desires to see all online and offline gambling regulated in the same manner as smoking in advertising and taxation.

This prevalent attitude towards the industry leads us to expect strict advertising limits in content, casino bonus offers, when ads air and restrictions on using celebrities as ambassadors.

 The Centre of Responsibility and Accountability

Under the gambling act, the newly formed Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland will be responsible for creating a multi-license regime that will attract gambling operators while enforcing the relevant controls to ensure player safety and dissuade criminal activities.

This oversight means that any licensed online gambling operators will have to:

• Abide by strict anti-money laundering/counter-terrorist protocols
• Provide in-depth reporting on the source of player and company funds
• Invest financially in a social impact fund to combat problem gambling
• Submit their business practices and investors to 3rd party reviews and audits

The GRA will have the authority to fine companies found to be contravening critical aspects of their licensing agreement with penalties of up to €20 million, or 10% of gross gaming revenue, whichever is greater.

The only caveat to this penalty system is that the High Court of Ireland will have to confirm that the reason for the fine and the amount are correct and legally binding.