Ireland’s Gambling Regulator Is Authorised to Issue Betting Licences

The order activates provisions of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, repeals laws enacted before 2024, enabling licensing framework.

Key Points

• Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority may now accept and issue betting licence applications.
• Remote betting licences will start in July 2026, with in-person licences in December.
• The move repeals the Totalisator Act 1929 and the Betting Act 1931.

Ireland advanced gambling reform after Minister Jim O’Callaghan signed a commencement order. The order authorises the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland GRAI to issue betting licences.

Commencement of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024

It was signed on 3 February and takes effect from 5 February 2026. This activates sections of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. Activation allows GRAI to process remote and in-person betting licence applications. It also enables enforcement, oversight, and complaint mechanisms within the system. The order enacts amendments repealing earlier gambling legislation. The Totalisator Act 1929 and the Betting Act 1931 are repealed. These changes replace long-standing laws with a consolidated regulatory regime. The Authority may issue licences to new market entrants when practicable.

Remote betting operators will gain licences from 1 July 2026. In-person betting operators will transition from 1 December 2026. Existing licences expire through the Office of the Revenue Commissioners on that date. The Department of Justice said the Act provides enforcement authority to GRAI.

Crackdown on Unlicensed Gambling and Regulatory Breaches

This authority addresses non-compliance involving unlicensed operators and regulatory breaches. Minister O’Callaghan said reforms aim to address gambling-related harm. The statement stressed the protection of children and vulnerable people. The framework introduces a centralised regulator covering licensing, compliance, supervision, and enforcement. Licensing commencement reflects movement from legislative reform to operational regulation.

This follows GRAI establishment and publication of guidance and research. In January 2026, GRAI-commissioned research examined gambling exposure across population groups. The Economic and Social Research Institute carried out the research under formal commission. Results showed childhood exposure increased problem gambling risk during adulthood. These findings supported preventative regulation and stronger child protection measures within the framework.