The Irish gambling industry is moving into a stricter era with the new Gambling Regulation Act and the creation of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. For a long time, gambling laws in the country were outdated and often ignored the rise of online play, but that is changing as Ireland looks to modernise. The aim is to make online casinos safer while holding operators to higher standards and ensuring that advertising and promotions are handled more responsibly.

For players who enjoy online casinos, these changes will be noticeable. Promotions like free spins and no deposit offers are already being looked at closely to see if they are still compliant. While this may mean fewer flashy offers, it also means players will have more transparency about what they are signing up for.

However, not everyone will feel the same impact. Those who play at the best Irish online casinos licensed in other jurisdictions will continue to see many of the benefits that made those platforms popular, such as large game libraries, generous bonuses, and loyalty programs that reward regular players. The differences between locally regulated platforms and those based abroad may influence where people decide to spend their time.

One of the main focuses of the new regulator is advertising, with its partnership with the Advertising Standards Authority. In the past, gambling companies could promote their offers with very little restriction, which often led to exaggerated claims. Now, any advertising has to be clear and accurate.

This means operators will have to be careful with how they promote bonuses and special offers. For players, this might seem like a step backwards because there will be fewer dramatic promotions, but the trade-off is more honesty and less chance of being caught out by small print.

Another important part of the reforms is identity and age verification. Casinos will need to prove that players are who they say they are before allowing them to play. This is designed to stop underage gambling and to prevent fraud, something that has become a concern as more people gamble online. While this could make signing up slightly slower, it adds more trust for players who want to be sure their money and personal information are safe.

Responsible gambling tools will also become a bigger part of the Irish market. Players will be able to set limits on deposits, exclude themselves from play for a period of time, or use other features designed to help manage their habits. These tools already exist on some international platforms, but they will now become mandatory for all operators licensed in Ireland. For players who only gamble occasionally, these tools may not make much difference, but for those who spend more regularly, they could provide useful safeguards.

For operators, the new rules will bring extra costs and responsibilities. They will need to invest in better verification systems, clearer advertising, and customer support that helps players use responsible gambling tools. Some smaller operators may struggle to keep up with these demands, but larger companies with more resources will likely adapt and use compliance as a way to win trust. Being able to say that they are fully licensed and compliant in Ireland could become a strong selling point.

There are advantages for operators beyond trust. With rules clearly laid out, there is less uncertainty about what they can and cannot do. Instead of trying to compete with exaggerated or misleading offers, companies can focus on improving their games, platforms and customer service. This levels the playing field and gives operators confidence that they are not being undercut by rivals who take shortcuts.

For players, the benefits are also clear. The biggest gain is transparency. When promotions are easier to understand, players know what they are getting before they commit. The use of responsible gambling tools also gives people the ability to stay in control of their spending, which reduces the risk of problems. Also, with more secure identity checks, players can trust that their accounts are protected.

The Irish government also stands to gain from this modernised framework. With proper licensing and taxation, revenue from gambling can be used within the country. At the same time, the government can say it has taken steps to protect consumers and reduce the risks associated with online gambling. Ireland is now moving closer to other European countries that already have stricter oversight and more established regulators.

Even with these changes, many Irish players will continue to look at international platforms. Casinos licensed abroad are often more competitive with their promotions, game selection, and loyalty systems. Unless enforcement is extended to block these options, players who want more variety or more generous rewards will still have easy access to them. This means the Irish regulator will need to balance its efforts carefully. Too many restrictions could push players away from local operators, while a fair balance could strengthen the domestic market.

The shift to tougher oversight marks a significant moment for gambling in Ireland. For players, it brings both protections and limitations, and for operators, it means more responsibilities but also more credibility. How both sides adapt will shape what the Irish gambling landscape looks like in the years ahead.

Slot games have long been a favourite among Irish players, offering fast-paced entertainment, exciting features, and the chance to win big—all from the comfort of home or on the go. With the rise of dedicated online platforms and mobile-first design, the demand for high-quality slots has never been greater. But which titles are resonating most with players in Ireland right now?

Here’s a look at some of the most popular slots that are making waves across Irish gaming communities—and how platforms like Monopoly Casino are keeping players engaged.

1. Rainbow Riches – An Evergreen Irish Favourite

It’s no surprise that Rainbow Riches remains a top pick for Irish players. With its familiar folklore theme, bonus-rich gameplay, and colourful visuals, this game continues to capture attention year after year. Originally a land-based hit, the slot’s successful transition online—particularly on platforms like Monopoly Casino—has helped cement its status as a go-to title.

Players love the Road to Riches and Pots of Gold bonus rounds, which add variety and anticipation to each spin.

2. Starburst – Simple, Bright, and Addictive

Sometimes less is more, and Starburst proves exactly that. This visually stunning NetEnt title remains one of the most played slots in Ireland due to its simplicity, smooth gameplay, and wild re-spin feature. Its wide appeal comes from a clean design that suits both new and experienced players alike.

Thanks to platforms like Monopoly Casino, where Starburst is regularly featured in promotions and free spin offers, the game continues to attract consistent attention.

3. Book of Dead – Adventure Meets Big Wins

For players who enjoy an element of adventure with their gameplay, Book of Dead by Play’n GO ticks every box. This Egyptian-themed slot combines high volatility with the chance for massive wins during its expanding symbol free spins round. Irish players in particular seem to enjoy the high-stakes thrill and rewarding bonus mechanics.

The game has become a fixture across many online platforms and remains a staple for those chasing excitement with each spin.

4. Big Bass Bonanza – A Reel Catch

Big Bass Bonanza has hooked a loyal following among Irish players, thanks to its playful fishing theme, generous bonus rounds, and re-trigger potential. It offers a light-hearted vibe with solid win potential, making it ideal for casual players who want fun and features without overcomplicated mechanics.

Its popularity on Monopoly Casino and similar sites shows just how much players value a slot that’s as enjoyable to play as it is rewarding.

5. Monopoly Big Event – Classic Branding, Modern Gameplay

Bringing together nostalgic appeal and innovative features, Monopoly Big Event is another standout title that Irish players regularly seek out. This branded game delivers a fresh take on the iconic board game, with community chest bonuses, free spins, and multipliers.

Available exclusively on select platforms like Monopoly Casino, it’s an excellent example of how branded slots can combine recognisable themes with immersive gameplay to great effect.

Why These Slots Are So Popular in Ireland

The most successful slots in Ireland share a few key qualities: vibrant themes, rewarding bonus mechanics, and smooth mobile gameplay. Irish players also respond well to games that balance fun with the potential for solid payouts. Add in reliable platforms like Monopoly Casino—which provide consistent promotions, exclusive titles, and a trusted user experience—and it’s easy to see why these games top the charts.

Conclusion

From timeless classics to exciting new releases, Ireland’s most popular slots continue to reflect a love for quality gameplay, engaging features, and a bit of luck. With providers constantly evolving their offerings and platforms like Monopoly Casino leading the way in user experience, the future of online slots in Ireland looks bright—and full of thrilling spins.

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies are reshaping various sectors, from finance to gaming. But is Galway, and more broadly the UK, ready to embrace blockchain-based gambling? Let’s explore current trends, market projections, and how the underlying technology can offer a safer experience for players.

The UK Blockchain Market: A Rapid Expansion

The UK’s blockchain sector is growing fast. In 2024, the UK blockchain market was valued at around USD 0.66 billion, with projections forecasting a dramatic increase to USD 54.63 billion by 2033, reflecting a stellar compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 63.26% between 2025 and 2033.

Specifically, the blockchain-in-gaming market in the UK is also gathering momentum. As of 2024, it’s estimated at USD 637 million, with expectations soaring to USD 48.9 billion by 2035, growing at approximately 48.4% CAGR.

Looking globally, the blockchain-in-gaming market is undergoing explosive growth, from USD 13 billion in 2024 to USD 301.5 billion by 2030, driven by a significant 69.4% CAGR.

Meanwhile, the broader UK cryptocurrency market generated USD 334.3 million in revenue in 2024, with forecasts pointing to USD 619 million by 2030 (CAGR of 11.1%). On-chain activity in the UK was substantial too, USD 217 billion in value moved between July 2023 and June 2024.

What’s the Appeal of Blockchain for Galway Players?

Blockchain gambling includes platforms often referred to as online casinos not on GamStop, those that fall outside the UK’s self-exclusion framework. These platforms are known for provably fair games, decentralised infrastructure, and cross-border accessibility, which continue to attract interest from technology-aware gamblers.

Blockchain records every transaction on an unalterable public ledger. In a gaming context, this means bets and outcomes can be independently verified, making manipulation or hidden house edge harder to conceal.

It also employs robust cryptographic protocols, reducing risks like hacking and fraud, common concerns in traditional platforms.

Many blockchain gambling platforms publish game results with cryptographic proofs. Players can validate the fairness of each round, something not typically possible in traditional casinos.

Furthermore, decentralised systems lack a central server to breach, lowering the risk of systemic failure or coordinated attacks. Together, these features align with the preferences of users who prioritise transparency, privacy, and control over their digital interactions.

Are Galway Players Ready?

A YouGov UK study found that approximately one in seven UK online gamblers (15%) expressed interest in placing bets using cryptocurrency, while around 7% of all UK adults say they are fairly or very interested. This suggests a sizeable base curious about the convergence of crypto and gambling.

As of 2024, about 12% of UK adults owned cryptocurrencies, a substantial rise from 4.4% in 2021. This growing familiarity indicates a broader foundational readiness to explore blockchain-led experiences.

While blockchain gambling may offer technological benefits, players must weigh them against regulatory frameworks that emphasise protection and oversight. Galway players keen on exploring this space will benefit from informed decisions grounded in both technology and compliance.

Summary and Outlook

Galway players are increasingly positioned to engage with blockchain-based gambling. The UK blockchain market is expanding rapidly, with gaming-specific segments showing remarkable growth potential. A growing portion of the populace holds or is interested in cryptocurrency, underpinning a receptive environment. Blockchain platforms offer enhanced transparency, security, and fair play, appealing traits for modern players.

As blockchain continues gaining attention, Galway players stand on the cusp of a new era in gambling, one defined by cryptographic transparency and decentralised trust.

As Ireland heads into the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, the team finds itself at a significant turning point. Just a few years ago, they missed out on the 2021 tournament.

Today, they arrive not just as participants, but as legitimate dark horses in the betting markets, ranked fifth in the world and carrying momentum from landmark wins, including a first-ever victory over the Black Ferns.

Coach Scott Bemand has named a 32-player squad that blends youth, grit, and world-class experience. With eyes set on a strong Pool C campaign against New Zealand, Spain, and Japan, here are five Irish stars poised to make a major impact this September.

1. Edel McMahon – The Relentless Leader

Back Row | Exeter Chiefs & Connacht | 34 Caps

Edel McMahon is the heart and soul of this Irish team. A powerhouse in the back row, she combines defensive toughness, breakdown mastery, and intelligent leadership. Hailing from County Clare, McMahon is a multi-sport athlete with accolades in Gaelic football and even Australian Rules Football before switching to rugby.

Her rugby career has been defined by resilience. From being selected for the Barbarians before her first Irish cap, to battling through injuries and leading Ireland to WXV3 and WXV1 victories, McMahon has emerged as a cornerstone of this revitalised squad. As co-captain, she played a key role in Ireland’s 2024 Six Nations third-place finish and landmark wins over Australia and New Zealand.

Expect McMahon to be central to Ireland’s success—marshalling the breakdown, setting the physical tone, and inspiring those around her.

2. Sam Monaghan – The Comeback Queen

Lock | Gloucester-Hartpury | 23 Caps

After over a year sidelined with an ACL injury, Sam Monaghan returns to the Irish fold just in time for the World Cup. A natural leader and physical force in the second row, Monaghan made an instant impact after her debut in 2021. Her towering lineout presence, defensive grit, and gain-line running helped her claim Irish Player of the Year in 2022 and back-to-back Premiership titles with Gloucester-Hartpury.

Co-captaining Ireland alongside McMahon during their WXV3 title run, Monaghan’s influence off the field is as valuable as her contributions on it. Her leadership was sorely missed during her absence, and her return could be the X-factor that propels Ireland deep into the tournament.

With fresh energy and a point to prove, Monaghan will be one of the most influential figures in Pool C.

3. Beth Buttimer – The Teenage Talent

Hooker/Back Row | UL Bohemian & Munster | Uncapped

The youngest member of Ireland’s squad, 19-year-old Beth Buttimer is already a name to remember. Though uncapped at senior level, her rapid rise through the ranks speaks volumes. A standout at age-grade levels, she starred for Ireland U20s at the Six Nations Summer Series, earning Player of the Match honours and helping the team secure a historic win over Scotland.

Known for her power, versatility, and composure, Buttimer can play both hooker and back row, bringing tactical flexibility to the squad. With strong showings for Munster and the Clovers, she’s earned a spot not just on potential but performance.

Don’t be surprised if Buttimer earns her first senior cap on rugby’s biggest stage—and makes it count.

4. Ellena Perry – The International Returnee

Prop | Gloucester-Hartpury | 1 Ireland Cap (11 for England)

Ellena Perry’s journey to the World Cup is one of resilience, transition, and reinvention. After earning 11 caps for England between 2018 and 2020, Perry stepped away from international rugby. Now, having switched allegiance through her Irish grandfather, she’s back—this time in green.

The Gloucester-Hartpury loosehead has overcome injury and the challenges of motherhood to return to elite form. Making her Ireland debut earlier this month against Canada, she offers invaluable experience in the front row and brings scrummaging stability and carrying power to the squad.

Having already tasted World Cup rugby in another jersey, Perry will look to make her mark with Ireland this time, adding crucial depth and leadership up front.

5. Enya Breen – The Midfield Maestro

Centre | Munster Rugby | 29 Caps

Enya Breen is Ireland’s creative engine in the backline. At 26, she has emerged as one of the team’s most composed and reliable playmakers, returning from a serious ACL injury in 2023 to help steer Ireland to third in the 2024 Six Nations.

Breen combines strong defensive organisation with sharp attacking instincts and playmaking vision. She’s captained the Clovers to impressive wins in the Celtic Challenge and brings a calm, strategic presence to midfield, a vital quality in the high-pressure environment of a World Cup.

With matches in her home county of Cork and dreams formed watching Ireland at the 2017 tournament, Breen enters the 2025 edition as both a leader and a legacy-maker.

Conclusion: A Squad Ready to Surprise

From experienced internationals like McMahon and Monaghan to rising stars like Buttimer and Breen, Ireland’s 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup squad has the tools to compete with the best. With professional structures now firmly in place and confidence high after a historic win over New Zealand, this team is ready to make a statement.

Drawn into a challenging Pool C with the Black Ferns, Japan, and Spain, Ireland will need to fire on all cylinders. But with a squad full of leaders, warriors, and game-breakers, don’t bet against them going deep.

This World Cup could mark the moment the shamrock takes centre stage.

Plopped right on the western coast of Ireland, Galway is a city with an artistic soul, cozy pubs, and windswept beauty. But what most people don’t know is that it also harbors a growing poker culture. From the grizzled veterans to the greenest rookie, Galway boasts one of the most inclusive card scenes in the world, layered, friendly, and diverse, unlike any other.

Roam around the city, and you’ll run into friendly hands, attentive hosts, and games that glide easily between the competitive and the convivial. It’s not these huge, faceless places; it’s the corner pubs and bars that take poker for more than just a gamble. And while each has its very individual feel, unlike any other spot, together they make up an interesting patch in Galway’s poker jigsaw.

Eglinton Casino leads the way

The Eglinton Casino and Poker Club form the cornerstone of Galway’s poker community. The balance this venue strikes is a delicate one: well-set and professional yet accessible, and friendly while entering your first tournament or honing your high-stakes Omaha strategy, the environment is attuned to your pace.

Daily cash games, varying stakes, well-run events draw in the regulars, and rightfully so. Over the years, Eglinton has built a name, not only in breeding competitive players but providing an environment with gentler learning curves. It’s not too intense either, the staff has that personal warmth that can melt even the hardest edge table tension. And it’s here of course where the best poker games in the city often unfurl, with old grinders and newly ambitious players.

However, the competition may get tough. This makes it higher for pros, but for those still finding their feet deciding when to fold or go all-in, it may be a little overwhelming. But this is what many people love: there is always an opportunity to improve, for those looking to improve.

4 Aces brings comfort and charm

Just a little way across town, the 4 Aces Casino brings something new. In place of grandeur, this private members’ club cultivates intimacy in a cozy and approachable setting. The games here are regular but not overexuberant. Monday Texas Hold’em nights do especially well with a cheery mix of small-stakes players and amateurs; the club is mostly social.

The ambience is more jolly than serious, and this is liked by many players. There is something simple in a place where poker is as much about playing as strategy. Of course, it won’t have as many tournaments as Eglinton’s, but its relaxed attitude more than compensates for that.

Claude’s Casino captures Galway’s spirit 

And finally, Claude’s Casino, hiding by the city’s waterline, where style meets minimalism. It’s not the biggest place, or tries not to be, and that’s the charm. Here, poker isn’t so much a show as a pastime.

Locals dropping in for a couple of hands, tourists stumbling in after dinner, conversation comes easily between shuffles. It’s not about the game selection; it’s the slower pace and the scenic backdrop that seem to be it. Claude’s is where poker fits into the overall Galwegian life, unhurried, enjoyable, and charmingly human.

Caesars Palace delivers on energy

If you want scale and action, Caesars Palace has it. Combining traditional poker tables with over 250 machines, it’s the energetic environment that buzzes into the night. Regular tournaments and varied formats offer something for every player– particularly those seeking fast-paced action.

The flip side to this high-octane setting is, of course, the noise, and occasional overcrowding. But for many, that’s part of the fun. It’s less about slow play and more about playing in a crowd that knows the game.

Galway Poker Festival raises the stakes

And last but by no means least, ad plays host to the Galway Poker Festival. A major poker destination once a year, satellites turn the venue into a poker destination, featuring mixed-format tournaments, and huge prize pools; it’s the one event where local pride and international talent collide.

The festival attracts a full spread. Ambitious amateurs, high-stakes regulars, and curious onlookers all gather under one roof. It’s not a full-time venue, but the impact of the festival on Galway’s poker culture is undeniable.

In closing

Galway’s poker venues provide a different game, and a different night. Whether it’s aged tables, easy company, or the odd all-in thrill you’re looking for, the city provides quiet. Here, poker is not just about cards but about people, pace, and the pleasure of playing where the stakes feel just right for you.

Online casinos have become increasingly popular, offering various bonuses to attract new players and retain loyal ones. Among the most appealing types of promotions are slots bonuses. These bonuses allow players to maximise their playing experience, offering extra funds or spins to use on online slot games.

For example, many platforms like Happy Slots Casino, offer welcome bonuses that can include both free spins and bonus funds. The Happy Slots bonus for new players is a great way to get started, providing them with extra opportunities to explore new slots without having to invest much money upfront.

Welcome Offers for New Players

One of the most enticing bonuses for new players is the welcome offer. This type of promotion is designed to reward players when they first sign up at an online casino. Welcome offers often come in the form of a deposit match, where the casino matches a percentage of your first deposit with bonus funds. For instance, a casino may offer a 100% match bonus on your initial deposit up to a certain amount, giving you double the funds to play with.

In addition, some casinos provide new players with free spins on selected slot games as part of their welcome offer. This gives players the chance to try out different games without using their own money.

Free Spins: Popular and Rewarding Slot Bonus

Free spins are perhaps the most popular and widely available type of slot bonuses. This promotion typically allows players to spin the reels without using their own funds. Free spins are often offered as part of a welcome bonus, but they can also be awarded as stand-alone promotions or as part of loyalty programmes.

Most free spins are restricted to specific games, and winnings may be subject to wagering requirements before they can be cashed out. For example, a player might receive 50 free spins on a popular slot like Starburst or Gonzo’s Quest, and any winnings from these spins may require additional playthrough before the player can withdraw the money.

Reload Bonuses and Loyalty Rewards

Reload bonuses are another great way to keep the excitement going for regular players. Unlike welcome offers designed for new sign-ups, reload bonuses reward players who make subsequent deposits. Typically, they offer a match on deposits made after the initial one, providing extra funds for continued play.

Many online casinos also have loyalty programmes that offer ongoing rewards for regular players. These programmes often come with tiered levels, where players can earn more perks as they continue to play. Loyalty bonuses might include free spins, cashbacks, or even special events for VIP players. As players level up, they may also gain access to exclusive bonuses, making these rewards especially appealing for dedicated slot players.

No Deposit Bonuses: Free Play with No Risk

One of the most appealing types of slot promotions is the no deposit bonus. As the name suggests, these bonuses don’t require players to make a deposit to claim them. No deposit bonuses typically come in the form of free spins or bonus funds that players can use to play their favourite slot games.

No deposit bonuses are a fantastic way for players to explore new casinos without any financial risk. Usually offered as part of a casino’s sign-up promotion, no deposit bonuses allow players to test out games without any restrictions.

However, players should keep in mind that no deposit bonuses come with specific terms and conditions, such as wagering requirements or other restrictions. While these bonuses offer a great way to start playing, it’s important to understand how to meet the wagering requirements in order to fully benefit from them.

Cashbacks: Protecting Your Slots Experience

Cashback bonuses provide players with the chance to recoup a portion of their losses, proving especially beneficial during periods of unfavourable luck. Typically, cashback bonuses apply to losses over a certain period (e.g., weekly or monthly), with players receiving a portion of their losses back in the form of bonus funds.

Cashbacks are designed to give players a second chance, helping them to recover some of the funds they’ve lost while playing. This type of bonus is particularly valuable for players who experience a streak of bad luck. While cashbacks typically don’t come with high wagering requirements, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, such as the percentage of losses that qualify for cashback.