Ireland approved a landmark bill that establishes a new framework for the country’s gaming industry and effectively overhauls the existing regulatory regime.
In a statement on the Irish government website, the Minister of State for Legal Reform at the Department of Justice said: James Brown TD, greetings Passage of the 2022 Gambling Regulation Bill which took place on Wednesday, October 16.
Original Gambling Bill Removes Legislative Hurdles in Ireland
The bill was passed by both houses of parliament and created Údarás Rialala Cearrbhachais na hÉireanneither Irish Gambling Authority.
This new law helps establish rules that govern both the physical and online gaming industry, and also establishes important initiatives such as Social Impact Fund Its goal is to raise awareness about problem gambling behaviors.
The bill also aims to address the persistent threat of the black market, which continues to prey on residents and undermine the operations of regulated operators. Commenting on the passage of the bill, Brown said:
“It provides a new streamlined, simplified and consistent licensing system that reflects the nature of gaming in modern society and addresses the rapid proliferation of digital gaming and advertising in recent years.”
He added that the bill balances freedom of play with the safeguards necessary to protect young people.
Brown said his office has sought extensive advice from industry representatives as well as independent experts, as well as people working in the gambling harm prevention sector and people advocating for stronger measures to help protect consumers from the consequences of gambling disorders. .
Extensive knowledge was used in the bill to ensure that the legislation passed achieved the desired results. Along with the bill, the first Director General of the Gambling Regulatory Authority was appointed, in the person of Anne Marie Caulfield.
The rules of the game are ready to become law
Caulfield has already outlined the first steps and confirmed that the watchdog will focus on licensing first.
“I am committed to ensuring that licensees act in accordance with the law and also comply with our mandate to implement safeguards to address problems associated with gambling.” he explained, adding that the regulator will work closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted implementation of the new gaming structure.
The regulator will also receive €9.1 million as part of its budget in 2025 and the body will be ready to carry out its functions. As Ireland launches a revamped regulated gambling industry, the only unregulated market in the UK and Ireland will remain Northern Ireland.
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