Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
240. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment 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. [36157/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department does not use any artificial intelligence software in the preparation of response to parliamentary questions or in responses to any correspondence from outside the organisation.
An internal policy document regarding the use of Generative AI was developed in 2023 and issued to all staff in my Department. This policy document sets out the risks of using A.I. and related technologies and the mitigation that staff must adopt to avoid those risks. This policy position was informed by guidance received from the National Cyber Security Centre.
When considering the use of new technologies, my Department assesses the risks and benefits of appropriate technologies, including A.I., on a case by case basis. When implementing these technologies, advice is sought from all appropriate sources. Suitable policies and safeguards are then put in place and issued to all staff.
My officials continue to keep the potential to leverage A.I. technologies to deliver efficiencies in all areas of the Department’s work under review, including considering opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies specifically within the areas of engagement with the parliamentary system and with other external stakeholders. A new ICT strategy for the Department is due to be developed and published in 2025 as a successor to the current ICT strategy - enterprise.gov.ie/en/publications/dete-ict-strategy-2020-2025.html.
In respect of the agencies that come within my remit, they are statutorily independent in their functions and this is an operational matter for them. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the agencies for direct reply.
