Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
159. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether his Department has undertaken or commissioned any studies on the use of artificial intelligence by the general public, including trends in adoption across different age groups and sectors, such as tourism; the insights gathered on the way in which AI is shaping consumer behaviour and service delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30523/26]
View answerMy Department has undertaken a range of analysis in relation to the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) for the Irish economy and labour market, including through a series of research papers examining the opportunities and challenges associated with AI adoption. This work has primarily focused on enterprise, productivity and labour market impacts, rather than on patterns of AI use among the general public across age groups or specific sectors such as tourism.
As part of a joint research programme with the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), a recent paper examined the factors influencing the adoption of AI among Irish micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This research found that knowledge-related barriers are a key determinant of differences in AI adoption rates across firms, while factors such as access to finance, security concerns and skills shortages influence firms’ future investment intentions. The findings highlight the importance of increasing awareness of the benefits of AI, alongside ensuring a stable regulatory and security environment, in supporting wider uptake.
In addition, through the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, my Department has published research on “How AI is transforming the Irish Labour Market”, which points to the rapid pace of AI adoption in Ireland, including a doubling of AI-related jobs and usage since 2023. Ireland performs strongly in both demand for AI skills and the supply of AI talent. Further research is underway, including the forthcoming “Skills for Digital Specialists 2030” report and a new “Working in Ireland Survey”, which will provide additional insights into AI and labour market developments.
While my Department has not commissioned specific studies focused on AI adoption by the general public, ongoing engagement with enterprise agencies, stakeholders and the research community continues to inform our understanding of how AI is shaping business models, consumer expectations and service delivery across the economy, including in service sectors such as tourism, hospitality and retail.
The Government’s broader approach is set out in the National Digital and AI Strategy, “Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future”, which provides a clear roadmap for strengthening Ireland’s position as a digital leader and advancing the responsible adoption of AI across the economy and society. This includes measures to accelerate enterprise adoption, enhance skills and workforce readiness, and establish new data and evidence capabilities, such as a National Skills Observatory and an Observatory for Business AI Readiness.
My Department will continue to monitor developments in AI adoption and their implications for enterprises, workers and consumers, and will ensure that policy responses remain evidence-based and responsive to this rapidly evolving area.
