Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
127. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has a policy, or has issued guidance to staff on the use of artificial intelligence, large language model, natural language processing, generative or otherwise, or products based thereon in the course of their duties; if this has been communicated to staff; if he will publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36151/24]
View answerMy Department continues to follow guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) “Cyber Security Guidance on Generative AI for Public Sector Bodies”, published on 1 June 2023 which states that access to AI platforms should be blocked
“until such time as Departments have conducted the relevant risk assessments, have appropriate usage policies in place and staff awareness on safe usage has been implemented.”
In February 2024 a notification issued to staff in the Department drawing their attention to the newly published Interim Guidelines for Use of AI in the Public Service from the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform – these guidelines are available online. The notification reminded staff that AI tools are blocked by default in the Department while potential use cases are investigated.
The Department is currently finalising guidelines for staff on the limited use of AI and these will issue in the near future. Any subsequent roll-out of AI tools will be accompanied by comprehensive support, governance and risk assessment to ensure their safe and appropriate use.
