The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gibraltar Gambling Commission, establishing a framework for cooperation across international borders. The agreement is part of a broader effort by both gambling regulators to discharge their duties more effectively.
Key Notes of the Story
- Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the GRAI, signed an MoU with Andrew Lynam, Gambling Commissioner and Executive Director of the Ministry of Justice, Trade and Industry, Government of Gibraltar.
- The agreement underscores a framework of cooperation between the two gambling authorities, setting out broad principles to enhance collaboration across borders for more effective regulatory oversight.
- This is the third of a series of MoUs signed by the Irish gambling watchdog, as it prepares to open the first phase of its licensing window.
Improving International Collaboration for Gambling Regulations
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland signed an MoU with the Gibraltar Gambling Commission as part of its ongoing preparation to initiate the first phase of gambling licensing. The agreement between the two gambling regulators was signed in Dublin. Anne Marie Caulfield, the CEO of GRAI, and Andrew Lynam, the Gambling Commissioner of Gibraltar, signed the Memorandum of Understanding.
The partnership forms the guidelines for regulated online casinos in Ireland and underscores the framework for cooperation and support between the two gambling watchdogs. Both organisations have a shared vision for improving player safety, and working in tandem will enhance their ability to perform their respective duties and discharge responsibilities more effectively.
Speaking on the occasion, Anne Marie Caulfield said:
“This Memorandum of Understanding that we signed with the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner, Andrew Lynam, marks a significant milestone in the collaborative journey between our two nations. Given how gambling operators are active in both jurisdictions, this MoU is the first step toward developing a mutually beneficial collaborative relationship between the two regulators.
This is an important step in the GRAI’s plans to establish cross-border relationships with gambling regulators. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Andrew Lynam, CEO of the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority and his team for their unwavering support and assistance, and welcome them to Dublin.”
GRAI Preparing to Open Licensing Window by Late 2025
The agreement is the third of several MoUs signed by the GRAI with international gambling regulators as it prepares to launch the first phase of its licensing window later this year. The operator has already signed cooperation agreements with the Belgian Gaming Commission and the UK Gambling Commission.
As part of its recent initiatives, GRAI has also published the results of its public consultation regarding the proposed licensing regulations. The watchdog has announced plans to launch a tiered licensing fee structure valid for up to five years. The regulator stated that the response has been mostly positive, especially from operators, who were extremely supportive of the proposal.
As part of the standard operating procedure, the GRAI will now send a formal notification of the regulations to the European Commission, the member states, and the general public, as necessitated by the Technical Regulation of Information Systems, ensuring regulatory consistency across the European Union.
Earlier this month, the GRAI confirmed its plans to accept new licensing applications by the end of 2025. The regulator reiterated its commitment to the late-2025 deadline after rumours misrepresented Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s Parliamentary response to Labour TD Mark Wall, suggesting postponement to mid-2026.