Ireland is set to introduce a wide-ranging package of anti-money laundering measures aimed at preventing criminal gangs and terrorist organisations from using the country’s financial system to disguise illegal proceeds.
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris is expected to announce the measures as part of Ireland’s first national anti-money laundering strategy. The Government says the plan will strengthen the country’s ability to detect and disrupt money laundering, terrorist financing and other forms of financial crime.
The strategy will place particular attention on sectors considered vulnerable to the movement of illicit funds, including gambling and cryptocurrency services.
New rules will strengthen controls surrounding crypto assets and transfers, making it more difficult for criminals to move money through digital currencies. The Government also plans to increase transparency around company ownership, particularly where complicated corporate structures can be used to conceal the individuals who ultimately control businesses or assets.
Another key part of the strategy will be improved intelligence sharing between State agencies and financial institutions. The Government intends to strengthen cooperation between departments, An Garda Síochána, the Revenue Commissioners, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Central Bank and financial institutions when suspicious financial activity is identified.
The gambling sector will also face increased oversight under the new approach. Authorities are expected to strengthen monitoring of businesses and activities that could be exploited to turn illegal funds into apparently legitimate money.
The strategy follows the publication of Ireland’s 2026 National Risk Assessment on Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Proliferation Financing. It also reflects recently agreed European Union anti-money laundering legislation and measures announced by the Government earlier this year.
Officials say the national strategy is designed to provide a coordinated response to changing threats, particularly as criminals adopt new technologies and financial channels.
Harris described the initiative as the most significant strengthening of Ireland’s anti-money laundering framework in years.
He said the strategy would give law enforcement agencies stronger tools, improve the sharing of intelligence across the State and strengthen oversight of emerging risks while ensuring Ireland continues to meet international standards.
“Today’s launch sends a clear message: Ireland will not be a safe place to launder criminal proceeds,” Harris said.
He added that the Government would continue efforts to target organised crime, protect Ireland’s financial system and preserve the country’s reputation as a safe place to live, work and conduct business.
The Government’s focus on cryptocurr
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