GRAI Pushes Back on Reports of Licensing Delay to 2026
Reports suggesting a delay to Ireland’s new gambling licensing system until mid-2026 do not reflect the full picture, according to the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).
While The Journal cited Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s parliamentary response suggesting full implementation would occur in mid-2026, the GRAI has reaffirmed its goal to begin licensing operations by the end of 2025.
In response to a parliamentary question from Labour TD Mark Wall, Minister O’Callaghan stated:
“The new licensing system under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is expected to be fully operational by mid-2026. The Social Impact Fund, a key priority of the Act, will be established following the issuance of the first licences.”
In a statement, the GRAI said it is “preparing to open for licensing in late 2025” and will adopt a phased rollout. “To function as a regulator, we must commence licensing as soon as possible. This will depend on the transition from the current licensing system,” the authority noted.
The discrepancy appears to stem from different interpretations of what constitutes the “start” of licensing. While the Minister referred to full regime implementation, the GRAI emphasised that it will begin accepting licence applications in late 2025, starting with certain operator categories.
The GRAI was officially established on 5 March 2025, following the enactment of the Gambling Regulation Act in October 2024. The authority, chaired by senior civil servant Paul Quinn, will oversee all aspects of gambling regulation in Ireland, including licensing, compliance, enforcement, and public awareness.
Despite mixed signals from within government, the GRAI maintains that it remains on track for its late 2025 launch.
As it stands, the only section of the Act that has been enacted is the provision establishing the GRAI. This means the gambling industry is not yet legally required to make any operational changes under the new regime.
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