Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
128. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if his Department, or any agency under his auspices, has ever used any artificial intelligence software in the preparation of response to parliamentary questions, or in responses to any correspondence from outside the organisation; the details of same if applicable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36170/24]
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.”
Generative AI tools are thus blocked in my Department while officials work to develop guidelines for staff to ensure that any future use takes place in a safe and appropriate manner. Until this work is complete, the current policy in place states that such tools should not be used for any official business.
I have asked the Agencies under my aegis to provide the information requested directly to the Deputy. If you do not hear back from the Agencies within 10 working days, please contact my office.
