GRAI outlines plan for safe and fair gambling reform

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has released its official Statement of Strategy for 2025 to 2027, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition toward a fully regulated gambling market. The newly published document sets out the Authority’s core objectives for the next three years, with a strong focus on self-sustainability, responsible gambling, and the protection of consumers from gambling-related harm.

This comprehensive roadmap comes as the Authority continues its phased establishment under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which formally laid the foundation for an independent, transparent, and modern gambling oversight body in Ireland.

A major step in Irish gambling reform

The creation of the GRAI represents one of the most substantial public policy reforms in Ireland’s gambling history. The Authority, which officially began operations in March 2025, was established as an independent statutory body under the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. Its purpose is to modernize Ireland’s long-outdated gambling laws and ensure a consistent, fair, and transparent framework that aligns with international standards.

In July 2025, the GRAI published detailed guidelines for licence applications, covering both Business-to-Consumer (B2C) and Business-to-Business (B2B) operators. These guidelines serve as the foundation for entities preparing to operate under the new licensing regime, which is expected to become operational in 2026.

Strategy overview: Six functional pillars

The GRAI’s Statement of Strategy focuses on six key functional areas, each directly linked to its legislative mandate and long-term vision. These pillars are:

• Licensing – The establishment of a transparent and efficient licensing system for all gambling operators, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and promoting integrity within the market.
• Monitoring and compliance – Continuous oversight of licensees through data-driven supervision and audit mechanisms designed to detect and deter non-compliance.
• Enforcement – A robust enforcement framework allowing the Authority to investigate breaches, impose sanctions, and uphold the principles of fairness and accountability.
• Consumer protection and awareness – Initiatives aimed at reducing gambling harms, promoting safer gambling tools, and raising public awareness about risks and support resources.
• People, organisation, and governance – Building internal capacity through recruitment, training, and governance standards to ensure an agile and professional regulatory body.
• Digital first – Prioritising digital transformation and technology-led processes to improve operational efficiency and public accessibility.

Each of these areas is supported by measurable objectives and outcomes that will guide the GRAI’s activities through to 2027, ensuring progress can be monitored transparently and reported publicly.

Government endorsement and ministerial remarks

The strategy was formally presented by Minister Jim O’Callaghan TD, alongside GRAI Chair Paul Quinn and Chief Executive Officer Anne Marie Caulfield.

During the launch, Minister O’Callaghan underscored the importance of the new regulator’s mission, stating:

“This strategy is not just about regulation; it is about educating the public, protecting those vulnerable to gambling harm, and ensuring that the industry operates to the highest standards of integrity and social responsibility. As Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration I am committed to supporting the Authority in delivering on its mandate.”

His remarks reflect a broader governmental commitment to reforming the gambling landscape, emphasizing the need for social responsibility, education, and public trust in a sector that has long operated under fragmented legislative frameworks.

A roadmap for trust and integrity

GRAI Chair Paul Quinn highlighted the Authority’s public mandate to ensure that gambling in Ireland is conducted responsibly and transparently:

“As a newly established independent regulator, we have been entrusted with a vital public mandate: to ensure that gambling in Ireland is conducted in a safe, fair, and transparent manner, with the interests of individuals, families, and the wider community at its heart.”

Quinn added that the Authority’s foundation is built on “the principles of prevention, protection, and evidence-based regulation,” noting that the three-year strategy would guide the creation of “a modern, fair, and trusted regulatory regime that reflects the constantly evolving nature of gambling and the expectations of the Irish public.”

Building a modern licensing framework

One of the central priorities for the GRAI is the establishment of a comprehensive licensing regime that brings both land-based and online operators under one regulatory umbrella. The Authority aims to begin accepting licence applications by the end of 2025, with the regulated market expected to go live in 2026.

During the transition period, gambling businesses are advised to comply with existing legislation — primarily the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 — and to continue obtaining or renewing licences through the Revenue Commissioners.

The move toward a unified licensing structure is intended to eliminate inconsistencies and ensure all operators adhere to uniform standards of player protection, anti-money laundering measures, and advertising compliance.

Consumer protection at the heart of regulation

Consumer welfare is a cornerstone of the GRAI’s strategy. The Authority’s mission places particular emphasis on preventing gambling harm, especially among minors and vulnerable individuals. To achieve this, the regulator plans to:

• Develop public awareness campaigns to promote safer gambling practices.
• Collaborate with health and addiction services to enhance support for individuals affected by gambling-related harm.
• Require licensees to integrate robust player protection mechanisms, including self-exclusion tools and deposit limits.
• Implement strict guidelines on advertising and marketing, ensuring that promotional materials do not target or appeal to underage or at-risk populations.

These measures reflect the Authority’s broader goal of ensuring that gambling remains an entertainment activity conducted within a safe and responsible environment.

Enforcement and compliance: A data-driven approach

The GRAI’s enforcement strategy emphasizes proactive monitoring and swift intervention where breaches occur. The regulator will employ a data-driven risk assessment model to identify potential areas of non-compliance and to prioritize inspections accordingly.

The Authority’s enforcement tools will include administrative sanctions, licence suspensions, and, where necessary, referrals for criminal prosecution. Transparency will be central to this process, with regular publication of enforcement outcomes to promote industry accountability.

By combining technological oversight with human expertise, the GRAI aims to create a culture of compliance that incentivizes ethical conduct and deters misconduct within the gambling sector.

A digital-first transformation

Recognizing the evolving digital landscape of gambling, the Authority’s “Digital First” strategy seeks to embed technology in all aspects of its operations. From online licensing portals to real-time monitoring systems, digital innovation will underpin the regulator’s efficiency and accessibility.

This approach is also expected to facilitate greater transparency for consumers and operators alike, providing up-to-date information on regulatory developments, enforcement actions, and responsible gambling initiatives.

Becoming a self-financing regulator

A key element of the 2025–2027 strategy is the Authority’s plan to become financially self-sustaining within two years. This will be achieved through the collection of regulatory fees and levies from licensed operators.

By establishing an independent revenue stream, the GRAI seeks to reinforce its autonomy and reduce reliance on public funding, aligning with international best practices for regulatory governance.

This financial model will allow the Authority to reinvest resources into research, education, and technological infrastructure, ensuring long-term regulatory resilience.

Industry collaboration and engagement

While the GRAI’s primary function is regulation, its strategy emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders — including operators, public health organizations, and community groups — to develop effective, evidence-based policies.

Regular consultations and industry engagement will ensure that regulatory measures remain practical, proportionate, and informed by data and real-world experiences. The Authority also plans to issue regular progress reports and conduct public consultations to maintain transparency and accountability.

Looking ahead: 2026 and beyond

The coming years will be pivotal for Ireland’s gambling sector as the new licensing and regulatory regime takes shape. The GRAI’s structured, phased approach ensures that both operators and consumers will benefit from a modern, transparent, and safe gambling environment.

The regulator’s vision — to balance market innovation with social responsibility — is expected to set a benchmark for gambling regulation in Europe.

By the end of 2027, the Authority aims to have established itself as a credible, trusted institution that safeguards the public interest while supporting a sustainable and responsible gambling industry.

Conclusion

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland’s 2025–2027 Strategy represents a transformative step toward establishing a transparent, accountable, and socially responsible gambling environment in Ireland. By setting clear priorities across licensing, compliance, enforcement, consumer protection, governance, and digital innovation, the Authority has positioned itself to deliver a modern and effective regulatory framework that aligns with global standards.

The emphasis on consumer welfare and evidence-based regulation underscores the government’s commitment to addressing gambling harm and ensuring that industry growth does not come at the expense of public well-being. Through a balanced approach that combines strong oversight with education and collaboration, the GRAI aims to foster a culture of integrity, fairness, and responsible participation within Ireland’s gambling sector.

As the Authority moves toward its 2026 launch of a fully regulated market, the groundwork laid in this strategy will shape the country’s gambling landscape for years to come. By becoming self-financing and digitally advanced, the GRAI not only strengthens its independence but also enhances its ability to protect players, support ethical operators, and build long-term public trust in Ireland’s reformed gambling system.

FAQs

What is the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI)?
The GRAI is the independent body established to regulate all forms of gambling in Ireland, ensuring fair, transparent, and responsible industry operations.

When did the GRAI begin its operations?
The Authority began operations in March 2025, following the enactment of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024.

What is included in the GRAI’s 2025–2027 strategy?
The strategy outlines six focus areas, including licensing, compliance, enforcement, consumer protection, governance, and digital transformation.

When will gambling licences be available in Ireland?
The GRAI expects to open the application process by the end of 2025, with the regulated market launching in 2026.

How will the Authority protect consumers?
Consumer protection will be achieved through education, public awareness campaigns, self-exclusion tools, and strict marketing restrictions.

What is the “Digital First” approach?
It refers to the integration of technology in all regulatory processes, ensuring efficient licensing, compliance monitoring, and communication.

Will the GRAI be financially independent?
Yes, the Authority plans to become self-financing within two years through the collection of licensing fees and levies.

What laws currently govern gambling in Ireland?
Until the new framework is fully implemented, operators remain regulated under the Betting Act 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956.

How will enforcement be managed under the new regime?
The GRAI will employ data-driven oversight, conduct audits, and impose sanctions where necessary to uphold compliance.

Why is this strategy significant for Ireland?
It marks a modern shift toward responsible regulation, ensuring gambling is conducted safely while protecting public welfare.