Ireland’s newly founded Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRAI) is looking for people to fill key leadership posts as it prepares to undertake major changes in the country’s gambling sector.
The call for applications, issued by Minister of State for the Department of Justice, James Browne, encourages competent persons to apply for the positions of Chairperson and six “ordinary members” of the GRAI board.
GRAI, or Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, was established to reform Ireland’s obsolete gaming regulations. The authority will be in charge of providing licenses and regulating all areas of gaming, including advertising tactics and the operation of both online and in-person gambling, with the primary purpose of improving public safety.
This decision follows the recent passing of Ireland’s Gambling Regulation Bill (GRB), a comprehensive overhaul of gambling regulations that had largely stayed untouched since the original rules were introduced in 1931. Browne prepared the new framework, which was ratified by Ireland’s coalition government in November 2022 with final approval from President Michael D. Higgins.
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One of Ireland’s Gambling Regulatory Authority primary goals will be to create a license system that prioritizes social responsibility. Unlike commercial gambling operators, charities and sports organizations will be subject to a new licensing framework that recognizes their unique position in society.
To safeguard vulnerable populations, the new regulatory authority is planned to impose tough gambling advertising restrictions, including monitoring gambling promotion through websites and applications.
Browne said, “This is a wonderful opportunity to lead Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann’s strategic direction and set a robust regulatory and licensing regime for the gambling sector.” The formation of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland is a significant step toward assuring a well-regulated gambling industry and safeguarding the public from gambling risks.”
According to Browne, GRAI would be granted broad enforcement powers, allowing it to take decisive action against non-compliant operators. Once operational, the authority will monitor compliance with the new license criteria and impose stiff fines for noncompliance. Applications for GRAI’s Chairperson and Board Member positions are accepted until November 15.
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