1520. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice when section 100 and in particular the related subsection 98.2 of the Gambling Act 2024 will be commenced, given that these sections relate to children being permitted into greyhound stadiums where gambling takes place and requires reasons to be given by the venues as to their suitability for young children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18776/25] 

Jim O'Callaghan, Minister for Justice: I was pleased to commence parts of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 to enable the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (the Authority) to become operational on 5 March 2025. 

It is important to note that the majority of the provisions of the Act will commence only after gambling service providers are licenced under the legislation. The GRAI are responsible for ensuring the Authority will be operationally ready to stand up its functions on a phased basis. I am advised that this work includes, as a priority, progressing the licensing process, with a view to inviting applications for some licence types within the coming year. 

At its heart, the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 is a public health measure aimed at protecting our citizens from gambling harm, including younger people and those more vulnerable in our communities. It is illegal for people under 18 to participate in gambling activities. Under section 98(2), where a potential licensee wishes to allow children on their premises, an applicant must outline as part of their application a statement of the reasons why children should be permitted on the premises, and details of all activities, other than gambling activities, that will be provided on the premises. 

Under section 100 of the Act, the Authority can, upon application, make a determination as to whether children should be permitted on a premises, having regard to the information supplied by the applicant, along with the location and nature of the premises and subject to any conditions the Authority may specify when making its determination. Such determinations shall be based on information provided under section 98 of the Act. 

The intention of this section is to allow for circumstances where gambling activity is provided on a larger campus such as a stadium, racetrack or venue that offers other activities in addition to gambling. Importantly, the Act provides that children will be prohibited from taking part in gambling activities while there. 

Section 177 of the Act, when commenced, provides that it shall be an offence for a licensee to permit a child onto a premises where gambling activities are being provided, unless expressly permitted on the licence. This is a continuation of the policy provided for in the Betting Act 1931 regarding the prohibition on children being present at a bookmaker’s premises.