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Ireland to Launch National Gambling Regulator Amid Modernization Push

A long-overdue overhaul of Ireland's gambling laws is finally here. The new regulator will reshape licensing, enforcement—and public trust in the industry.

The image shows a poster with the words "The Irish Poker Club" written in bold, black lettering...
The image shows a poster with the words "The Irish Poker Club" written in bold, black lettering against a white background. The poster is framed by a thin black border, and the words are accompanied by a colorful illustration of a shamrock, a traditional Irish symbol of luck and good fortune.

Ireland to Launch National Gambling Regulator Amid Modernization Push

The Republic of Ireland is set to introduce a new national regulator for its gambling sector. Minister of State David Stanton has highlighted the urgency for the country to modernise its oversight, as current rules focus mainly on the National Lottery. The move comes as gambling regulations in the UK have undergone rapid changes in recent years. Ireland’s new regulator will establish clear licensing rules for gambling businesses and work to prevent issues like match-fixing through cross-border coordination.

The Irish Bookmakers Association (IBA) has welcomed the plans, having already adopted some international recommendations. Beyond licensing, the regulator will also tackle public awareness of gambling-related harm. Funding for the new body will come from a self-sufficient licensing model, ensuring it operates without relying on state funds.

The regulator’s creation marks a shift from Ireland’s outdated gambling laws. Its responsibilities will include licensing, enforcement, and education. The government expects the system to align with international standards while addressing domestic concerns.

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