AI REGULATIONS IN IRELAND

In Ireland, the advancement and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) are guided by several key initiatives and regulations aimed at promoting innovation, enhancing digital infrastructure, and preparing the workforce for the future. One of the earliest initiatives, the National Digital Research Centre (NDRC), established in 2007 under the Department of Climate Action, Communications, and the Environment (DCCAE), serves as a vital early-stage investor in digital technology startups. Its objectives include providing capital and hands-on support to early-stage companies, aligning with OECD AI principles on inclusive growth, sustainable development, and investing in AI research and development.

The AI Use Cases in the Public Sector in Ireland Initiative, launched in 2018, aims to foster innovation and technology adoption. This initiative highlights the benefits of AI in improving public services and aligns with OECD AI principles on inclusive growth, human-centered values, transparency, and accountability

To prepare its workforce for the future, Ireland launched the Future Jobs Ireland Initiative in 2019, focusing on embracing innovation, improving SME productivity, enhancing skills, increasing labor force participation, and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. This initiative aligns with OECD AI principles on inclusive growth, fostering a digital ecosystem for AI, and preparing for labor market transitions.

Moreover, Ireland has implemented the Data Sharing and Governance Act in 2019 to regulate data sharing and collecting practices, ensuring data protection and privacy rights while promoting digital transformation. This act aligns with OECD AI principles on transparency, robustness, security, and enabling policy environments.

More recently, Ireland has developed a comprehensive National AI Strategy, spearheaded by various governmental bodies, with a primary focus on building public trust in AI, creating a robust governance environment, increasing productivity, and fostering innovation in both the public and private sectors. This strategy, launched in 2021, aims to position Ireland as a global leader in AI research and innovation, aligning with several OECD AI principles, including human-centered values, fairness, transparency, and international cooperation.

.Ireland’s AI initiatives and regulations reflect its commitment to leveraging AI for sustainable development, innovation, and digital transformation while ensuring ethical and responsible AI deployment.