UKGC and GRAI Join Forces to Strengthen Player Protection

The new Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRAI) in Ireland and the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) have signed an MoU to increase collaboration between the two countries, an agreement that is noteworthy in the gambling industry. Andrew Rhodes, CEO of the UKGC, met with GRAI chief Anne-Marie Caulfield in Dublin on April 2 to finalize the deal.

As the gambling sector becomes increasingly digital and borderless, regulators are now thinking beyond their turf. This MoU sets up a collaborative framework for sharing insights, syncing enforcement strategies, and harmonising best practices across both jurisdictions.

Operators may perceive this as a tightening of regulations, but for players, it signifies a greater emphasis on transparency and fairness. This is especially aimed at streamlining how gambling is monitored and managed across the UK and Ireland. This move further reflects the growing understanding that effective regulation must transcend national boundaries, especially as online gaming continues to blur the boundaries between local and international markets.

For casino players and bettors on both sides of the Irish Sea, this agreement affirms the trend toward safer and more transparent gambling environments. The result could be a more consistent and fair experience. And for the wider industry, this collaboration marks a key step in adapting to the complexities of modern gambling regulation, where cooperation is as essential as compliance.

More Partnerships in the Works

Although the GRAI only became officially operational in March 2025, it is already showing great momentum. As the newly launched Irish regulator begins asserting its influence, this MoU signals the first of several similar agreements GRAI intends to forge with European counterparts. The aim is to develop a strong network of aligned authorities capable of managing gambling risks that extend across national boundaries.

In addition to international partnerships, GRAI is also focusing on stakeholder engagement at home. A new industry panel is in development to bring operators into the fold during the creation of new gambling policies. This consultative group will provide feedback on regulations, allowing licensed casinos, sportsbooks, and slot providers to shape standards before implementation. It has already conducted preliminary discussions with both major operators and smaller businesses to build trust and encourage transparency.

To ensure consumer protection remains a top priority, GRAI is also planning a separate lived experience panel. This group will include individuals affected by gambling harm and will advise on policies designed to minimise player risk and promote safer play. Both panels are expected to support a broader initiative of public consultation, where proposed rules and regulatory frameworks will be opened for feedback from the industry and community alike.