Announcement on December 11 confirmed a collaboration between the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) and the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) to address gambling advertisement complaints in Ireland, covering all media formats. The GRAI will manage issues related to licensees, while the ASA will oversee complaints concerning gambling advertisements as it does in the UK. Both organizations aim to ensure adherence to the ASA code, with regular meetings planned to review performance, analyze trends, and share information.
### Free Complaint Service for Consumers
Individuals in Ireland concerned about gambling advertisements have two options for filing complaints through the ASA’s system. First, complaints can be submitted anonymously online, allowing the ASA to review and potentially launch an investigation. Alternatively, formal complaints can be made about an advertisement’s content or its promotional methods across various media.
### Commitment to Public Protection
The GRAI was founded under the Gambling Regulation Bill, which moved forward on October 16 after being proposed in December 2022. This bill introduces multiple changes to Ireland’s gambling industry, such as a national self-exclusion program, harsher advertising restrictions, a revised licensing system, and stricter rules for gaming venues. These changes represent the first significant regulatory shift since 1956.
The GRAI is actively recruiting for multiple roles, including board positions. Anne-Marie Caulfield, the incoming CEO of GRAI, stated that assuming regulatory powers will enhance consumer protection in Ireland, noting that the partnership with the ASA is a key part of this strategy.
“Our collaboration with the ASA will address public concerns regarding gambling advertisements swiftly and effectively, in accordance with the ASA’s guidelines,” Caulfield mentioned. “This partnership underscores our dedication to public safety, ensuring awareness and protection through high standards of marketing communication.”
### Advertisements to Meet Standards
Orla Twomey, ASA’s chief executive, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Our goal at ASA is to ensure advertisements are legal, decent, honest, and truthful for audiences,” Twomey explained. “This partnership highlights our joint effort to protect consumers, ensuring the public has access to information on responsible gambling advertising.”