Ireland’s first-ever gambling regulator can start accepting license applications on Thursday. Minister for Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration Jim O’Callaghan has signed an order to let the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) proceed with retail and online casino proposals.
The GRAI can then start issuing licenses for online operators in July and for retail operators in December. These dates line up with the expiration of existing permits from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
replacing Ireland’s outdated gambling laws”
Talking about the milestone, O’Callaghan said that it’s a key point in “replacing Ireland’s outdated gambling laws” and to better safeguard people from problematic betting, especially children.
The GRAI was only set up in 2025 after the passage of the Gambling Regulation Act, aiming to bring the country’s regulation into a modern age. The GRAI will also have extensive powers, including the ability to fine operators the higher of €20m ($11.8m) or 10% of its turnover.
