Ireland has unveiled its refreshed National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, titled “AI – Here for Good Refresh 2024,” marking a pivotal update to its 2021 roadmap. This strategic overhaul addresses the rapid advancements in AI technology and regulatory frameworks, including the forthcoming implementation of the EU AI Act. Spearheaded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, the refreshed strategy underscores Ireland’s commitment to fostering trustworthy, person-centered AI development while positioning the nation as a global leader in AI innovation.
Since the launch of the original strategy in 2021, Ireland has made significant strides in creating an enabling environment for AI adoption. The country has leveraged its thriving research ecosystem, robust tech talent pool, and growing AI enterprise landscape to position itself as a leading hub for innovation. The refresh builds on these achievements, aiming to balance innovation with regulation and public trust.
The updated strategy outlines seven key strands:
- AI and Society: Building public trust in AI remains central. Initiatives include the establishment of the AI Advisory Council, chaired by Dr. Patricia Scanlon, to provide expert guidance and foster transparency. Public engagement campaigns and AI literacy initiatives are designed to demystify AI and promote ethical practices.
- Governance for Trustworthy AI: Ireland is prioritizing the implementation of the EU AI Act, which introduces a risk-based regulatory approach. The National Standards Authority of Ireland will develop AI standards to support compliance and innovation.
- Driving AI in Irish Enterprise: To bolster AI adoption, the strategy introduces measures like an AI regulatory sandbox, awareness campaigns for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and expanded support through CeADAR, Ireland’s national AI hub. Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland are also scaling efforts to assist businesses in integrating AI technologies.
- AI Serving the Public: The strategy promotes AI-powered public services, with guidelines for ethical AI use and pilot projects to explore AI applications in areas like policy research and service delivery.
- Research and Innovation: A new National AI Research Nexus aims to unify Ireland’s research efforts, enhancing collaboration between academia and industry. Investments in disruptive technologies and international partnerships will drive cutting-edge AI research.
- AI Education and Skills: Addressing workforce readiness, the strategy expands upskilling programs, apprenticeships, and AI-focused education initiatives. The goal is to develop high-caliber AI talent while promoting diversity and inclusion.
- Infrastructure for AI: Recognizing the need for robust infrastructure, the strategy outlines plans to enhance high-performance computing access, cybersecurity measures, and renewable energy integration for data centers.
A central feature of the refresh is Ireland’s alignment with the EU AI Act, which prioritizes safeguarding fundamental rights while encouraging innovation. Ireland is actively participating in EU AI Board discussions and working groups to ensure effective implementation.
The strategy emphasizes support for SMEs and startups through initiatives like the Grow Digital Portal and expanded training programs. These efforts aim to democratize access to AI tools and resources, enabling businesses of all sizes to thrive in a digital-first economy.
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