The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has launched a nationwide initiative to combat underage gambling. The campaign began two weeks after the introduction of new online gaming licenses across the country.
The regulator collaborated with the Health Service Executive (HSE) Addiction Services to develop the awareness drive. Messaging is distributed via video-on-demand platforms, radio, and social media to assist families in identifying early behavioral indicators. The initiative relies on data from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), which indicates that children who gamble are twice as likely to develop gambling issues in adulthood.
The study further notes that 64 percent of surveyed adults engaged in betting before age 18, increasing the probability of future harm by 83 to 87 percent. Additionally, individuals with a gambling parent are 80 percent more likely to face similar struggles.
Regulatory Measures and Future Licensing
GRAI CEO Anne Marie Caulfield highlighted the vulnerability of younger demographics, noting that constant online access often obscures warning signs. The regulator advises parents to monitor for mood swings and financial secrecy, while also flagging risks associated with video game mechanics such as loot boxes. The campaign supports the Irish Gambling Regulation Act of 2024, which established penalties for underage participation.
Following the current remote license phase, the authority plans to process in-person betting applications later this year, with lottery and B2B licensing scheduled for 2027 and 2028.