Ireland’s New Gambling Licensing Framework: What Betting Operators Need to Know

The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 (Act) represents a comprehensive reform of Ireland’s gambling regulatory architecture. The Act introduces a modernised and consolidated regulatory framework, replacing a fragmented body of existing legislation with a single, centralised system of licensing and supervision. On 5th March 2025, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) was formally established under the Act as a single, independent regulator responsible for the licensing and supervision of gambling activities within the country.

Transition to a Centralised Licensing System

Once fully operational, the GRAI will assume responsibility for the grant, renewal and enforcement of gambling licences. Applications will be submitted through an online portal and assessed by reference to statutory suitability criteria, including the applicant’s financial standing, governance arrangements and compliance history.

In-person and remote gambling activities will be licensed separately, with hybrid licences to follow at a later phase.

During the transition period, betting licences will continue to be issued by the Revenue Commissioners under the Betting Act 1931 on a temporary basis. This approach is intended to facilitate continuity of operations while the GRAI licensing portal and assessment processes are phased in.

Premises Classification: Relevant and Non-Relevant Premises

The Act introduces a formal distinction between relevant premises and non-relevant premises for the purposes of in-person gambling licences.

Relevant premises are exhaustively defined and include racecourses, greyhound tracks, authorised coursing grounds and certain already regulated venues. Where gambling activities are conducted from such premises, the GRAI will not require detailed premises documentation, reflecting the fact that these venues are already subject to sector-specific statutory regulation.

All other premises fall within the category of non-relevant premises. Applicants proposing to conduct gambling activities from such premises must submit detailed documentation demonstrating the suitability of each location. This will include, among other matters:

• maps and floor plans;
• evidence of ownership or occupation;
• planning and building regulation compliance;
• fire safety certification; and
• insurance arrangements.

The GRAI may carry out a physical inspection of the premises and consult with relevant local authorities prior to determining suitability.

Children and ATMs at Non-Relevant Premises

The Act places particular emphasis on consumer protection, including specific measures relating to children and access to cash. Where an operator proposes to permit children on a non-relevant premises, prior approval must be obtained from the GRAI. Irrespective of any such approval, it remains a criminal offence for a child to participate in gambling in any circumstances.

Similarly, the provision of ATMs at non-relevant premises will require the prior consent of the GRAI. Applicants will be required to provide detailed information regarding the number, location and proximity of ATMs as part of the licensing process.

These requirements reflect a more structured and transparent approach to oversight of betting premises, while allowing for flexibility where appropriate safeguards are in place.

Comparison with the Existing Framework

The existing licensing system relies on a combination of Revenue-issued licences and court-based premises controls under existing legislation. The new framework consolidates these functions within a single regulator, introduces a risk-based assessment model and places greater emphasis on upfront documentation and ongoing compliance.

For established operators, this represents a shift towards a more formalised and transparent regulatory process, rather than a fundamental change in the nature of permitted activities.

Looking Ahead

The establishment of the GRAI and the implementation of the Act mark a significant evolution in Irish gambling regulation. Operators with an established retail presence, and particularly those operating from non-relevant premises, should give early consideration to the new requirements and ensure that appropriate documentation and professional advice are in place ahead of any application.

As the licensing framework is rolled out on a phased basis, proactive planning and ongoing engagement with regulatory developments will be essential to maintaining compliance and operational continuity.

This Moran & Ryan LLP material is not intended to provide, and does not constitute or comprise, legal advice on any particular matter and is provided for general information purposes only. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information contained in this material, without seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice.

Louise Wright
Partner
T: + 353 1 5450374
E: lwright@moranryan.com