Gambling Laws in Ireland Explained: All You Need to Know

Ireland is a small state with a rich culture. However, its culture isn’t the only reason for its fame. Its booming gambling industries currently rank it among the countries that gamble the most. So, if you’re a local enthusiast or a visitor looking to enjoy the best betting sites Ireland offers, understanding the legal landscape that directs these activities is essential. This blog will give you insight into all the complexities of Irish gambling laws! 

Historical Context of Gambling in Ireland

Ireland’s gambling industry blossomed in the 18th century, with various forms of betting gradually rooted deeper in Irish culture. However, the sector accommodated the modern governing foundation in the 20th century.

The ordinances that governed gambling activities in their primary phases were the Betting Act of 1931 and the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956. The amendments made after were aimed at modernizing the organization.

The Betting Act 1931

The Betting Act 1931, Ireland’s first comprehensive law, ruled the turf accounting. It granted on-site turf accountants (aka bookies or bookmakers) and betting shops permission to operate legally with the Revenue Commissioners’ license only.

The Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956

The Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956 dealt with unauthorized casino-style gambling activities.

Modern Amendments and Online Gambling

As technology advanced, gambling organizations also required up-to-date laws and administrations for smooth operation. The Betting (Amendment) Act 2015 made it a must for both physical and online betting sites in Ireland to obtain a license and pay taxes.

Betting (Amendment) Act 2015

In 2015, the management of online betting businesses was included to extend the scope of the Betting Act of 1931. Key amendments are:

• Licensing Requirements: Online betting dealers offering services to locals must obtain a license from the Irish Revenue Commissioners.
• Taxation: A 1% turnover tax on bets placed by Irish customers was introduced, with a 15% tax on betting exchange commissions.

The 2015 Act promoted fair play and consumer rights insurance in Ireland.

The Gaming and Lotteries (Amendment) Act 2019

The Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956 assisted the financial progress of local miniature gaming and lottery businesses. However, the updated Gaming and Lotteries (Amendment) Act 2019 totally revolutionized it. Critical changes are:

• Increased Prize Limits: The maximum prize limits for gaming and lottery activities were increased, making the sector more attractive.
• Age Restrictions: Participation of only an adult (18+ or older) was made mandatory.
• Streamlined Licensing: The licensing process for lotteries was simplified for charitable and philanthropic organizations.

The 2019 Act did not directly address the factors affecting online gambling. However, it legally required the physical sectors to adhere to the updated governing foundation, which further impacted online gambling.

The Gambling Regulation Bill 2022

Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 to recognize the lack of administration in online casinos. It provides clear guidelines and licensing requirements for the best betting sites Ireland. 5 key features include:

• Establishment of GRA: The Gambling Governing Authority was created to manage the state’s gambling organizations entirely.
• Enhanced Consumer Rights insurance: Self-exclusion and mandatory player rights insurance made gambling more responsible.
• Advertising Restrictions: Advertisers were restricted from advertising gambling activities in a way that is not influential for vulnerable individuals and minors.
• Comprehensive Licensing System: A tiered licensing system covering all forms of gambling, including online casinos, sports betting, and land-based gaming establishments.
• Anti-Money Laundering Measures: Strengthened measures to combat money laundering and other financial crimes within the gambling organizations are also a significant part of the bill.

This bill ensures dealers are obliged to hold strict standards so that the players can access safe and fair gaming environments.

Social Responsibility and Player Rights Insurance

Every latest amendment always solely focused on protecting consumer rights, particularly vulnerable individuals, and shall continue to do so, as the proposed Gambling Governing Authority is continuously holding operators obligated to carry out measures that are aimed at player rights insurance, including:

• Self-Exclusion Programs: Allowing players to withdraw from gambling activities voluntarily.
• Affordability Checks: Dealers must refrain the players from gambling beyond their means.
• Educational Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns to educate individuals about the risks of gambling and promote responsible gaming.

These measures turned the gambling business into social responsibility.

Conclusion

Understanding Ireland’s gambling laws is essential to experience a safe and regulated betting environment. As the industry evolves, staying informed about legislative changes will ensure you can enjoy betting responsibly and legally.

CryptoSlots unveils its new High Life slot and celebrates its second Million-Dollar Jackpot Trigger winner by a player known as ‘QUEENSHERE’.

With its luxurious theme, the mega matrix High Life slot, offers players a glimpse into a world of wealth. The symbols on the reels include private jets, precious gems, yachts, and money, all contributing to the opulent atmosphere of the game. It features Expanding Double Wild, Mystery Bonus and Pick Me Bonus game offers instant coin prizes.

“This game is sure to captivate players who appreciate the finer things in life and aspire to live a life of extravagance. Explore the possibilities of luxury and wealth as you spin the reels and chase after life-changing wins just like our recent jackpot winner!” – Michael Hilary, CryptoSlots Manager.

On May 10, player “QUEENSHERE” won a $1 million jackpot in a single spin while playing CryptoSlots’ exclusive Jackpot Trigger game. This jackpot win was achieved by matching both the color and number, and landing three red triple 7’s, making it the most recent million-dollar win.

Player ‘WHAMZY09’ achieved $100,000 win on April 18, with the most recent $1 million victory taking place in 2022—one year after the cryptocurrency casino’s launch.

JACKPOT TRIGGER MILLIONAIRE
Available only on Cryptoslots, Jackpot Trigger is a unique game that uses tokens obtained during gameplay on other games. Players receive 1 Jackpot Trigger Token for every $100 worth of winnings from other games.

“QUEENSHERE’s $1 million Jackpot Trigger win at CryptoSlots is a momentous achievement! While the game has previously awarded up to $100,000 multiple times, it’s only the second occasion where a player has hit the $1 million jackpot in a single spin.”- Michael Hilary, CryptoSlots Manager.

QUEENSHERE shared his thoughts: “The moment I found out I won the jackpot, my life changed forever. While I may not have shared my thoughts on winning publicly, I’ll admit that the idea of quitting my job and buying a Lamborghini is definitely on the table. Additionally, I am considering relocating abroad to start a new chapter in my life. The possibilities are endless, and I am truly grateful for this incredible opportunity.”

Incentive Games, leading B2B games provider and acquisition and retention specialist, has been officially accredited as a Great Place to Work Certified™ organisation for the second consecutive year. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to creating an engaging and people-centric environment that encourages a healthy work-life balance.

The Great Place to Work Certification is awarded to organisations that demonstrate a commitment to building a high-trust, high-performance culture. It is backed by anonymous feedback from Incentive Games employees which covers topics including trust in leadership, sense of belonging, opportunities for professional growth, and work-life balance.

As a global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work utilises its rigorous, data-driven ‘For All’ methodology. This accreditation confirms that a minimum of 65% of employees consistently enjoy a positive experience at Incentive Games.

Stewart Gove, Chief Operations Officer, said, “We’re thrilled to be recognised as a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row. Our employees are the driving force behind Incentive Games’ success. The consistent positive feedback about their experiences with fellow colleagues, leaders, and roles is a testament to the incredible dedication, collaborative spirit, and passion that our team brings to work every day.”

Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director of Great Place To Work® UK, expressed his congratulations to Incentive Games for attaining their certification, “We know that prioritising the employee experience leads to building trust among employees, fostering a remarkable workplace culture, and ultimately achieving exceptional business outcomes. Congratulations!”