Ireland Begins Recruitment for Gambling Regulatory Authority Board to Oversee New Framework
Ireland has launched its search for seven board members for the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), a new body established to enforce comprehensive gambling regulations across the country. Applications are open until November 15, as the government seeks qualified professionals to lead the authority in promoting public safety and responsible gambling.
Formation of GRAI to Regulate Gambling Sector
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) was created under the landmark Gambling Regulation Bill 2022, now law as of October.
The body is tasked with overseeing a unified regulatory framework for all gambling activities, both online and in physical venues, in Ireland.
The authority’s establishment reflects Ireland’s commitment to public safety and responsible gaming, granting GRAI powers to regulate advertising, online platforms, and mobile applications.
Recruitment Process and Key Responsibilities
Under the leadership of CEO Anne Marie Caulfield, the GRAI is set to begin its operations progressively as board members are appointed. Minister of State for Justice, James Browne, highlighted this recruitment as a “wonderful opportunity” to shape Ireland’s regulatory approach to gambling.
Browne commented that GRAI’s mission will be to build a “robust regulatory and licensing regime” aimed at protecting the public from gambling-related harms.
Once operational, GRAI will have the authority to enforce licensing standards, taking “appropriate and targeted action” against non-compliant gambling providers.
This regulatory power will be essential in establishing a well-governed gambling sector that aligns with Ireland’s commitment to consumer protection and public welfare.
Diverse Expertise Required for Board Composition
The recruitment process seeks individuals with expertise across several fields: legal compliance in regulated environments, consumer affairs, gambling operations, and addiction treatment, particularly concerning gambling.
Additional experience in financial services, ICT, audit, and forensic accounting is also highly valued. The board will include a balanced representation of three men and three women, ensuring diversity in decision-making.
Appointments will be made by the Minister for Justice through a competitive process conducted by the Public Appointments Service.
GRAI’s Role in Protecting Public Interests
The GRAI will be responsible for establishing key initiatives, including a National Gambling Exclusion Register and a Social Impact Fund. The fund will support research, training, and public education on gambling addiction, promote awareness, and provide regulatory information.
Additionally, GRAI will enforce restrictions on gambling advertising, such as a ban on ads between 5:30 am and 9:00 pm on various media channels.
Introduction of New Licensing Structure
The authority will oversee a tiered licensing system for both online and offline gambling activities. These licenses will cover business-to-consumer services in gaming, betting, and lotteries, as well as business-to-business operations and licenses dedicated to charitable or philanthropic gambling activities.
This licensing model will help create a clear regulatory framework, distinguishing between different types of gambling services and establishing compliance expectations for each category.
