Ireland and the United Kingdom have signed an agreement to collaborate on gambling regulation

An important agreement was signed in Dublin between the Irish Gaming Regulatory Authority (GRAI) and the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). UKGC Chief Executive Andrew Rhodes and GRAI Chair Anne Marie Caulfield formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a new phase in international cooperation within the gambling sector.
The document outlines a framework for close collaboration in areas such as regulatory compliance, information sharing, joint inspections, and tackling cross-border violations. Both countries face similar challenges in the gambling industry, and this partnership aims to enhance consumer protection and strengthen market trust.
"Ireland and the UK share similar operational practices and often work with the same companies. This agreement will enable us to exchange data more effectively and fulfill our responsibilities," emphasized Anne Marie Caulfield, Chair of the Irish Gaming Regulatory Authority.
She also expressed gratitude to Rhodes and his team for their support during the establishment of the GRAI, noting that the UKGC has effectively acted as an informal advisor. The UK Gambling Commission is internationally recognized for its regulatory compliance and has played a significant role in the launch of Ireland's independent oversight body.
The new regulator in Ireland has been granted a wide range of powers, including licensing, operator oversight, and the implementation of harm reduction mechanisms. Among its priority initiatives are the creation of a National Self-Exclusion Register and the establishment of a Social Impact Fund aimed at minimizing health-related harm to citizens.
The agreement with the UKGC is just the first step in a series of international alliances. The GRAI is already preparing similar memorandums with other European regulators, aiming to build a unified system for data exchange and the development of common standards in the rapidly evolving gambling landscape.
It is worth noting that new regulations for the iGaming industry are set to be introduced in Ireland.