A general introduction to gambling law in Ireland
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Irish law distinguishes between betting, gaming and lotteries. Betting is governed by the Bettering Act 1931 and the Bettting (Amendment) Act 2015.
The National Lottery Amendment Bill 2021 is before the Irish government for consideration and debate. It would make it an offence for bookmakers and betting intermediaries to take bets or facilitate betting on the outcome of a draw run by the National lottery. The Gaming and Lotteries Acts have not been updated to include internet gaming. The General Scheme of the Gambling Regulation Bill was published on 21 October 2021. Minister James Browne TD is responsible for Law Reform. He believes the General scheme is an important milestone towards the effective regulation of gambling in Ireland. There is a political desire to modernise Irish gambling law.
The term bookmaker means someone who offers odds on all or a significant number of eventualities arising in respect of the same event. Two private individuals entering into a wager on the future uncertain event could not be said to be engaged in the business of bookmaking.
There are a number of laws that control and regulate gambling in Ireland. The government approved the establishment of a gambling regulatory authority in March 2019. A draft bill for the bill is now being drafted. It is anticipated that the Gambling Regulatory Authority will be operational by 2023. Small lotteries are regulated by a permit granted by the Irish police or a licence granted from a district court. Applicants based in the country may apply for a certificate of personal fitness from the police. The National Lottery is regulated and overseen by an independent regulator.
The Betting Acts govern betting in Ireland. The Gaming and Lotteries Acts governs gaming and lotterying. National Lottery Act 2013 governs the Irish NationalLottery. Totalisator Act 1929 governs Totalissator.
