Ireland is entering a new phase in the regulation of betting and gaming.
The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 introduces sweeping changes, with the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) at the center of this shift.
The goal is to bring clarity and structure to what was previously a fragmented system.
GRAI: Central Role in Oversight
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland is now responsible for all legal gambling activities, online and in person. Its role includes granting licences, investigating complaints, enforcing advertising restrictions, and supporting public education on safe gambling practices. The new framework covers nearly every type of regulated activity, while the National Lottery remains under separate regulation.
The GRAI also oversees compliance with anti-money laundering laws and will develop a national exclusion register for people struggling with addiction.
A Central Resource: FIRST.com
Keeping track of these developments can be difficult, especially for those involved in the sector or concerned with how it may affect them. The FIRST .com website collects all relevant updates, news, and regulatory decisions in one place. It serves as a useful source for anyone following the changes in how gambling in Ireland is being handled under the new law.
Categories of Licences Under the New Law
The licensing system now has three distinct categories depending on who the service is intended for and what kind of gambling activity is offered:
All licences are issued by GRAI, and each operator must meet strict conditions. These include compliance with advertising laws, adherence to responsible gambling standards, and contribution to the Social Impact Fund if operating commercially.
Everyone involved must now apply for an online casino license Ireland before offering services or partnering with licensed operators.
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Stronger Safeguards and Exclusion Rules
Protecting the public from harm is a central part of the law. One of the most important features is the National Gambling Exclusion Register. People who register will not be able to access or be contacted by licensed providers.
Other new protections include:
- Prohibiting credit cards and ATM access in gambling venues
- Banning promotions that encourage excessive betting
- Blocking offers targeted at vulnerable users
These steps are seen as essential in shaping responsible gambling Ireland can manage long-term.
Gambling and Children: Zero Tolerance
Children are strictly prohibited from participating in any regulated activity. The law makes it an offence to allow under-18s to bet, visit betting premises, or be employed by gambling companies.
In addition, gambling legislation Ireland now bans operators from sponsoring events aimed at children or distributing branded items such as clothing that might appeal to young people.
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Clearer Advertising Rules and Restrictions
One of the biggest changes is the restriction on gambling advertising. Under the new rules, ads are banned on TV and radio from 5:30am to 9:00pm. Social media and streaming platforms must follow strict opt-in models, and messages cannot present betting as a financial solution.
Ireland gambling operators are also responsible for ensuring all sponsored events, websites, or banners comply with these rules.
Gambling for Charitable Purposes
Groups running fundraising lotteries or bingo events must now apply for a licence. To qualify, at least 30% of the proceeds must go toward a recognised charitable or philanthropic goal. While some low-prize events may still qualify for exemption, the majority of regular raffles or bingos will fall under the new licensing regime.
These requirements help clarify the position of gambling regulatory authority of Ireland on how charitable activity should be monitored.
Breaches and Enforcement
If a licensed provider breaks the law, the regulator can apply sanctions including fines, licence suspension, or even criminal prosecution. All operators must now follow the same set of rules, regardless of whether they are focused on betting shops or online platforms.
Those found in violation of the gambling laws Ireland enforces can face imprisonment or administrative penalties, depending on the severity of the breach.
Summary of Main Changes
- GRAI is the new central regulator
- All operators must apply for licences
- Ads are banned during daytime broadcast hours
- Credit card betting is no longer allowed
- Underage access is strictly banned
- Problem gamblers can register for exclusion
- Charities must apply for special licences
- Penalties for non-compliance are stronger
The question is gambling legal in Ireland has a clearer answer in 2025: yes, but only through fully licensed and compliant providers. The aim of the reform is to improve transparency, public health, and fairness in how the market operates.