Ireland has published a sweeping new National Digital and AI Strategy outlining how the country plans to expand digital public services, strengthen artificial intelligence adoption and position itself as a global hub for applied AI innovation.
The strategy, titled Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future, was released Feb. 18 by the Department of the Taoiseach and sets out 20 strategic objectives supported by 90 specific deliverables across government departments and agencies. Officials say the plan builds on Ireland’s existing reputation as a global technology hub and aims to ensure the country remains competitive while protecting data privacy and fundamental rights.
Among the most prominent goals is the full digitalization of key public services by 2030, with 90 percent of those services expected to be delivered online. The government also plans to establish a new AI Advisory Unit for the public sector, launch a National AI Fellowship program for civil servants and introduce a GovTech 2026 Challenge to promote innovation in government services.
The strategy includes a number of initiatives designed to boost AI adoption across the private sector. These include the creation of an Observatory for Business AI Readiness to track enterprise AI use, targeted programs to help small and medium-sized businesses develop AI literacy and a new sectoral strategy to expand AI adoption across industry.
Ireland also plans to strengthen its research capacity through the creation of a large-scale AI research center and expanded access to advanced computing resources. A new AI Office of Ireland will serve as the national coordinating authority for implementing the European Union’s AI Act, alongside the development of a regulatory sandbox for testing new AI systems.
The strategy also prioritizes digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, including improved broadband connectivity, new subsea data cable routes linking Ireland to Europe and the establishment of a Cyber Security Research Centre of Excellence.
Government leaders said the strategy is designed to ensure businesses, workers and communities across Ireland benefit from digital transformation while building public trust in emerging technologies.
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