Ireland's government has notified the European Commission of plans to establish a mandatory Social Impact Fund under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. Licensed operators will pay into the fund starting 1 April 2027.
From that date, gambling companies must contribute 1% of their previous financial year's turnover annually. Payments go to the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) by 1 July each year via bank transfer or electronic payment. Funds support gambling harm prevention and treatment programmes nationwide.
The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and the GRAI jointly set the 1% rate to ensure steady fund revenue without excessive strain on operator finances. Turnover is defined as the total amount received for providing betting and gaming services.
The Social Impact Fund represents a centrepiece of the 2024 Act, which completed a two-year overhaul of Irish gambling law. The sector previously operated under the Totalisator Act of 1929 and Betting Act of 1931, with licences issued by Revenue Commissioners. The new regulatory framework addressed the gap between an estimated €5bn annual online market and outdated legislation. The GRAI launched in February 2025 and assumed licensing duties in June 2026. The fund's April 2027 start continues this regulatory restructuring amid discussions of potential tax increases and advertising restrictions.
