New Irish gambling regulator signs MOU with Alderney counterpart
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission, marking a key step as Ireland prepares to roll out its new gambling licensing regime.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two regulators, allowing for information sharing and alignment on compliance, enforcement and player protection standards. It comes as the GRAI moves into its operational phase following its establishment in March 2025 under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024.
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GRAI CEO Anne Marie Caulfield said it was common-sense to look towards other established gambling regulators for guidance and advice as they attempt to establish and workable and safe industry in Ireland.
“The working relationship between Ireland and the Channel Islands is one that shares a common foundation of proportionate, innovative and professional regulation of gambling activities in both jurisdictions, and today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding signifies our commitment to working side by side with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission to protect the public,” she said.
“As the GRAI begins to issue licenses this coming summer, we look to counterpart regulators like the Alderney Gambling Control Commission to provide guidance and support, and we are grateful to Andrew and his team for their ongoing assistance as we continue to fulfil our public health mandate in protecting the most vulnerable in society, particularly young people.”
The new authority is expected to begin issuing licences from summer 2026, covering both online and land-based gambling, including sports betting and casino-style gaming. The overhaul replaces Ireland’s fragmented legacy laws with a centralised system designed to modernise oversight of the sector.
The partnership with Alderney, a well-established licensing jurisdiction, is aimed at ensuring consistency across markets and supporting the GRAI as it builds out its regulatory framework. It also reflects a broader push to strengthen cross-border cooperation as gambling regulation becomes increasingly international in scope.
