Gambling Activities in Ireland

Gambling in Ireland

Gambling activities take various forms in Ireland. From horse and greyhound racing to the more modern online gambling, they are all governed by Gaming and Lotteries Act first issued in 1956 in Ireland. The Irish Gambling Law underwent several changes in 2010 in order to comply with the latest EU regulations and to provide a safer framework for online gaming activities and casinos. The gambling legislation also comprises the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act issued in 2001 which regulates the settlement of Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs) in Ireland. All gaming activities in Ireland fall under the supervision of the Gaming and Leisure Association (GALA). The main activities of the GALA are:

• -          to protect clients of gambling facilities,
• -          to prevent money laundering actions from gaming activities,
• -          to make sure the tax legislation related to gambling activities is respected.

If you need more information about the Gaming and Lotteries Act you can refer to our representatives in Ireland.

The Gambling Control Bill in Ireland

The Gambling Control Bill was issued in 2013 and it is meant to establish the regulations under which investors can set up gaming companies in Ireland. The legislation establishes that each operator is required to obtain a license from the Irish Office for Gambling Control before starting operating. The Gambling Control Bill specifies the following activities may be carried out by Irish gaming companies:

• -          online gaming,
• -          betting,
• -          lottery activities,
• -          bingo activities,
• -          amusements.

Depending on the activity carried out, there are several classes of licenses one must apply for with the Irish authorities.

Licensing of gaming activities in Ireland

The Irish legislation provides for the following types of gambling activities:

• -          category 1 licenses for remote gaming and betting activities undertaken by local or foreign companies operating in Ireland,
• -          category 2 licenses for amusement machines,
• -          category 4 licenses for poker tournaments and other card games.

Casinos may also be required to apply for a liquor license, under the Intoxicating Liquor Acts. However, there are also gaming activities that under certain circumstances do not require licensing.

If you want to set up a casino and need assistance with the licensing procedure you can contact our Irish specialists in company registration.