Ireland’s gambling industry has been a self-regulated sector. However, all that may soon change with the introduction of a new bill that affects all gaming types. The laws governing the sector all look confusing because of changes within the past decade.
Although these adjustments may be hard to keep up with, Ireland’s attempt to meet new trends is noteworthy. They show its efforts to offer the best yet safest experience for its citizens. This article describes the different sectors of the Irish gaming environment. It begins with a general review of the legal landscape, history, and changes. We’ll end it by discussing the potential impact the regulations could have on the entire Irish gambling landscape.
Overview of Irish Gambling Regulations
Regulations for gambling in Ireland began in the mid-1800s with the initiation of the Betting Act of 1854. Since then, a series of changes have evolved the landscape into a modern structure. The Irish Revenue Commissioners oversee its activities, particularly the Revenue’s Betting Division.
The Betting Act of 1931 sets rules for licensing applications for all operators, whether for land-based gaming floors or online sites. For the latter, the increased accessibility to 24-hour gambling requires a convenient and safe payment method. Hence, learning how to deposit with PayPal, one of Ireland’s most popular banking options, ensures a better gaming environment. Its relevance has given rise to the exceptional strides and rich player experience the country’s iGaming sector experiences today.
Furthermore, taxation is available for all licensed bookmakers and their partners. This depends on the gross profits. Ireland also frowns heavily on underage betting and has firm policies for implementing age verification processes.
Historical Development of Irish Gambling Laws
As stated, the beginning of Ireland’s gambling laws dates back centuries. Besides, the new legislation builds on its predecessor’s achievements. Here’s a timeline of events leading up to the current status.
- Betting Act of 1854. This is the first legislation for gambling in the country. It aimed at regulating horse racing betting and stipulated rules for getting a license.
- Betting Act of 1931. The next rule focused more on the basis of modern laws. It also stipulated all the rules regarding regulations for off-course and on-course betting.
- Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956. This new Act focused on bringing regulations to all land-based operators. It includes all mechanical machines, casino floors, and lottery parlors. It also stipulated the requirements to get a license.
- Totalisator Act, 1961. The 1961 Totalisator Act provided a basis for all pari-mutuel greyhound and horse race wagering options. It also extended to the Irish Sweeps, allowing the state to run lotteries and pools.
- The National Lottery Act. The government started the National Lottery in 1986 as a means to raise funds. It includes guidelines for the establishment and operations, including activities like ticket sales and prizes.
- Betting Act of 2015 (Amended). The Betting Act of 2015 is an amendment to the 1931 rule, introducing aspects of online wagering. It stipulated guidelines for granting licenses to applications for internet gaming sites.
- Gambling Control Bill. The 2013 Gambling Control Bill of 2021 sought to consolidate and modernize all gaming laws. Parts of it include the establishment of a central regulatory agency and stiffer responsible gaming measures. However, it has not yet been made law.
Upcoming Changes to Irish Gambling Regulations
The new gambling law seeks to be an upgrade to the Betting Act of 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act (1956). Part of the reason for the almost full amendment comes from modern trends in the gambling industry.
The proposal is known as the “Gambling Regulation Bill,” which provides a definition and explanation affecting all stakeholders. Here are some crucial points about the new changes.
- Strict enforcement of bans on all social media advertising. It limits marketing ads to the websites themselves.
- Full restriction on underage wagering. It includes banning all kids and persons less than the legal age from gaming floors.
- Banning some bonuses. They include free credits and bets, VIP, and reward programs.
- No more using credit cards to fund betting accounts.
- Strict enforcement of bans on all advertisements online, in print, or on TV. This will be between 5:30 am and 9 pm.
- No more sponsorship by betting operators for clubs and establishments that have juveniles as members. Hence, sports teams with underage players should have no agreements with any iGaming company.
The bill also seeks to create a National Gambling Exclusion Register. It seeks to ensure all operators and gaming sites are included here. Persons who develop an unhealthy addiction will be added and restricted from creating an account on other platforms.
In addition, the proposed legislation looks to establish a new regulatory body, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, to enforce the latest additions. Its primary focus is on responsible gambling policies, including public safety. Part of its mandate will be for online and land-based gaming sites. The agency also has the power to regulate all iGaming activities, including mobile app wagering.
The body comprises a seven-member panel led by its Chief executive, Anne Marie Caulfield. One of its crucial roles involves offshore sites operating in Ireland. If the operator breaches the rules of engagement, this new regulator can get a court injunction to block off the site via the Irish Internet Service Provider.
The Impact of New Regulations on Online and Land-Based Operators
If this new legislation becomes law, the ripple effects will spread across physical and online gaming operators. First, it mandates that they sign up on the register before getting a license. Three permit types will become available, including business to consumer gaming, business to buisness license, and licenses for charitable reasons.
Another fact is that all operators are required to pay a levy. It is for establishing a social impact fund to finance initiatives to fight unhealthy addictions. Furthermore, they will focus on educating the public and raising awareness about the consequences.
Summary and Conclusion on the Future of Irish Gambling Laws
There are several key points to take from the new legislation being introduced. First is the country’s attempt to meet new trends by focusing on iGaming and providing regulations. Another is the steps it’s taking to protect the playing population against addiction through new rules. While the general reaction from operators has been positive, it remains to be seen if the new regulatory body is going to enforce the stiff penalties. Companies that breach the new law may be liable to pay up to €20 million. Advanced punishment means serving up to 8 years in prison for severe breaches, including allowing underage wagering.
Conclusion
The Irish gambling industry remains one of the highest-regulated environments. Thanks to a bubbling population that accepts it, more policies may be in place soon. The legislation has been in place since the 18th century, with regular additions. The new bill proposal will further put Ireland as one of the countries that have set laws that consider online gaming, whether for casino, sports wagering, or lottery.
Several operators have greeted the new development with positive reactions. It follows a rise in new trends affecting the world gaming community. Features like cryptocurrency, PayPal, and other standard payment methods are now common.