Irish gambling regulator: international CEO search underway

A recruitment search is underway to select the first CEO for the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland.

Ireland.- The Irish government is in the process of searching for a CEO to lead the future Irish gambling regulator, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. Applications for the position are due to close on Monday (March 21).

James Browne, minister of state at the Department of Justice, responded to a question from deputy Paul Donnelly at the Dáil Éireann saying that a wide reaching search was underway outside of Ireland.

Browne said: “The Public Appointments Service is managing the recruitment in conjunction with an Executive Search Agency….All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply. Full details of eligibility requirements including citizenship criteria are included in the candidate booklet.

“The Programme for Government gives a clear commitment to establish a gambling regulator focused on public safety and well-being, covering gambling online and in person, and the powers to regulate advertising, gambling websites and apps.”

Irish gaming bill on the way

Browne said that Ireland’s new gambling legislation was currently being drafted to create the framework and legislative basis for the new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. He added that a Programme Board has been created in order to move more quickly and develop operational procedures “in parallel” with legislation. 

The gaming regulator is expected to be operation in 2023, but some delegates say this should be sped up in order to rapidly address problem gambling in Ireland. 

Ireland’s overhaul of gambling legislation is also expected to include a ban on free bets, credit card use and VIP programmes, something that the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) is concerned may push players to unregulated operators. 

See also: Irish gambling trends survey raises social mobility concerns