Ireland finally published its Gambling Regulation Bill on December 2, 2022, a move welcomed by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA). In a recent statement posted on its website, the trade association said the publication of the Bill is a “significant milestone” for Ireland.
EGBA Fully Supports Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill
Under the new legislation, Ireland’s gambling sector will fall under the remit of a new regulatory body, the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), with Anne Marie Caulfield, former director of the Residential Tenancies Board, serving as Chief Executive.
EGBA Secretary General Maarten Haijer said the EBGA fully supports the new regulations which will bring Ireland’s gambling regulatory framework up to par with other EU jurisdictions.
Major gambling operators in the country, including Flutter Entertainment, also welcome the new Bill, which also proposes the creation of a self-exclusion scheme for customers at risk of gambling harm, as well as requirements regarding advertising, promotions, and sponsorships.
Bill Could Become Law in 2023
The use of credit cards for gambling transactions will be prohibited, and children and minors won’t be allowed to participate in any form of gambling. A social fund will also be established to fund problem gambling research, education, and treatment programs.
The Gambling Regulation Bill will still be debated at the Oireachtas, which is comprised of the Dáil Éireann (lower house), the Seanad Éireann (upper house), and the President. The legislation is likely to be approved into law in late 2023.
