Full update on the new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) as well as the appointment of new CEO Marie Caulfield! (Courtesy of Photo by Laura Tancredi)
Minister for Justice and Equality has confirmed that the Irish Gambling Amendment Bill is close to going live. The Bill is intended as an interim measure pending comprehensive gambling control legislation.
It will address deficiencies in certain regulated activities and update stake limits. This is a big step towards gambling reform in Ireland, where some gambling operators are expecting the changes and already focusing on bringing ethical services to the country.
The new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) legislation will apply to both in-person gambling and online gambling. The regulator will also have powers over advertising, websites and mobile applications that offer gambling services. The industry is important to the Irish economy, bringing in up to EUR 6 billion in annual turnover. It also employs upwards of 8,000 people. However, the new laws will need to balance business needs and the social implications of gambling.
Many believe that the new Gambling Regulation Bill will greatly improve the regulatory framework in Ireland. It will give regulators powers to control gambling licenses, restrict advertising, and enforce anti-money laundering procedures. It will also deal with problem gambling and fraud, as well as ensure that all gambling sites adhere to the highest standards of responsible gambling.
Who will pay for the licencing authority? The new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) will be Ireland’s first dedicated regulator and will oversee all forms of gambling. The National Lottery will be regulated separately. It also recommended that the licencing authority is self-funded from fees paid by licensed operators.
Appointing a New CEO of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has already announced the appointment of Anne Marie Caulfield as its new CEO. As the new watchdog, she will regulate the land-based and online gambling industry in the country, addressing the unregulated online gambling sector and in-person gambling advertising. It will probably mean live casinos for Irish players will need to register with the GRAI to continue to offer their online services residents of Ireland.
Furthermore, she will take on the responsibility for enforcing the reformed Irish gambling laws and protecting vulnerable communities from the harm gambling can cause. The new regulator will have the power to fine non-compliant operators and impose sanctions for breaching various regulations.
Experience is key: Anne Marie Caulfield has extensive governance experience and will ensure the GRAI is ready to hit the ground running as soon as it become a legal requirement for operators and software providers. She will also work to identify staffing and procedural aspects of the authority.
New Regulatory Framework for Online Gambling Expected 2023
Appointing a new CEO for the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) is essential to ensure the smooth transition of legislation to implement the new regulatory framework. It will also ensure the speedy emergence of the gambling industry and help companies in the gambling market prepare for the new regulated environment.
The country has long promised to reform its gambling industry. But it has had trouble finding a solution. Ultimately, lawmakers are working to establish the now confirmed gambling regulatory authority and introduce real changes to the current laws. Soon, online casino and sports betting enthusiasts will enjoy their favourite games in a safe and regulated environment under a solid framework that protects citizens of the Republic of Ireland who gamble.
Expected in 2023: The GRAI to be fully operational by 2023. The Department of Justice has established a Programme Board to oversee the process. The appointment of Caulfield will help to minimise the time between the enactment of the legislation and the launch of the new online gambling licensing. Read more about the appointment here.
White Paper for the New Irish Gambling Regulations Coming Soon
The government has promised to publish a white paper that will include the proposed regulations that will make up the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI). Its goal is to ensure a swift implementation of the reforms and its early announcement is a positive sign for companies that operate in the overall gambling market.
Officials organising the reform are adamant that the Republic of Ireland must maintain a steely stance to tackle gambling in a responsible manner and that the solution is also coming into fruition to resolve the public health issues that stem from problem gambling. This means that everyone must play a role. For example, if a sports star is sponsored by a gambling company, he or she should be held responsible for their activities.
Which licensing is available for Irish live casino players? You can find out more via the Irish live casinos portal here. In this guide, there is a section dedicated to gambling licensing authorities offering player protection. Updates to this section will apply as and when the new laws come into action.
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