Key points:
- The pair will work together to deal with complaints related to gambling advertising in Ireland
- GRAI will focus on complaints related to entities that hold a licence with them
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has agreed a deal with the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland to help deal with complaints surrounding gambling advertising.
The GRAI is set to officially begin work overseeing Ireland’s betting businesses by mid-2025, after the passing of the Gambling Regulation Bill in mid-October paved the way for the authority to be established.
This long-awaited legislation involves a number of measures, including restrictions on gambling advertising. This collaboration will look to safeguard the public in this regard.
Overall, the aim of the partnership is to “streamline the process for complaints around advertising for gambling,” as the pair will work together to assess complaints and advise on them.
With this, the GRAI will deal with complaints based on those who hold a licence with them, while the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland will deal with other complaints. Consumers will be advised that they can direct their complaints on gambling advertising to the advertising regulatory organisation.
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Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland Chief Executive Orla Twomey said: “We are delighted to partner with GRAI, a new organisation that will help to safeguard the public from problem gambling, particularly protecting children from accessing places or services where gambling activities are offered. The aim of the Advertising Standards Authority is to ensure that advertisements are legal, decent, honest and truthful for consumers.
“This partnership underscores our shared commitment to protecting consumers, and, by joining forces, we will remain dedicated to ensuring that the public can easily access information on responsible gambling advertising.”
GRAI CEO Designate Anne-Marie Caulfield added: “The GRAI, once established, will protect the public by promoting a gambling sector that operates transparently and in accordance with the laws of Ireland, particularly the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. This Act contains a number of restrictions on licences in relation to advertising, social media and more. It will also create awareness of problem gambling and establish safeguards to address it.
“By working with the Advertising Standards Authority, as the GRAI’s powers are commenced, we will aim to address any concerns raised by the public about advertising in and surrounding gambling promptly and effectively, in line with the Advertising Standard Authority’s code. Our partnership reiterates our commitment to safeguard the public, and to ensure they are informed and protected by upholding the highest standards of marketing communications.”
