Ireland has taken a significant step towards implementing the EU Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act with the designation of nine national public authorities responsible for protecting fundamental rights in high-risk AI applications. Announced today by Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation Dara Calleary, these authorities will gain new powers under the EU’s pioneering AI regulation to ensure AI usage aligns with human-centric, ethical standards.
The EU AI Act, which came into force on August 2, 2024, is the world’s first comprehensive regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. It prioritizes public safety, health, and individual rights through a risk-based approach. Its phased implementation over the next three years is set to transform AI oversight across Europe, focusing particularly on high-risk AI systems. As the first requirement of national compliance, EU Member States must identify authorities to enforce these protections, especially where AI systems might threaten fundamental rights.
Ireland’s newly designated authorities include:
- An Coimisiún Toghcháin (Electoral Commission)
- Coimisiún na Meán (Media Commission)
- Data Protection Commission
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman
- Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission
- Ombudsman
- Ombudsman for Children
- Ombudsman for the Defence Forces
These authorities will be empowered to oversee high-risk AI applications, a critical step given the rapidly expanding role of AI across sectors. They will have access to documentation required from AI developers and operators under the Act, enabling them to scrutinize AI systems that could impact democratic processes, privacy, or equality rights. Although they are not formally designated as competent authorities under the EU AI Act, these agencies will be equipped to extend their existing mandates to address AI-related concerns.
Minister Calleary emphasized the dual nature of AI, noting, “AI can provide many benefits for our society and our economy. However, AI also comes with certain risks. The EU AI Act will have a critical role in addressing these risks and in promoting human-centric, trustworthy AI.” He added that this step reflects Ireland’s commitment to ensuring AI’s integration into society is both beneficial and safe.
In alignment with the broader objectives of the EU AI Act, the identified authorities will initially focus on monitoring and enforcing protections where AI usage intersects with human rights. Their oversight role will officially commence on August 2, 2026, giving Ireland’s public and private sectors time to adjust to new requirements.
This designation will be reported to the European Commission, with the list subject to regular review and potential updates as necessary. Each of these authorities will maintain its core responsibilities while expanding to include AI governance where relevant.
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