Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
265. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the way in which his Department is supporting Ireland’s digital transformation through research, innovation and tertiary-education initiatives. [67832/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAddressing digital transformation is a key element of the Programme for Government and a significant element of my Department's mandate and responsibilities. This role will be reflected strongly in the forthcoming cross-Government National Digital and AI Strategy (NDAIS) as well as in the Tertiary Strategy which I expect will be published early next year.
In order to support the development of the Tertiary Strategy and the NDAIS, my Department will develop a Roadmap for Technology Skills of the Future to ensure our skills ecosystem is future focused. It will cover the full range of digital skills, from basic digital literacy to specialist technology skills.
To ensure that we can deliver those skills in a way that is effective, timely, and inclusive requires strong guidance and resourcing.
That is why I asked our National Skills Council to examine this issue and explore how we can ensure that we meet the skills needs of all cohorts in terms of AI adoption, and how we can best cohere what is already available in this space.
The Council proposes a one-stop AI Skilling Platform – a transformative initiative designed to equip Ireland’s workforce with the skills they need to thrive in our AI driven economy.
My ambition for this platform is that every citizen that wishes to access AI skilling to suit their needs and their situation – personal or professional – will find the appropriate content on this new platform.
Research Ireland is providing funding for key areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. It plays a pivotal role in driving technological progress by providing talent, skills, and career pathways for high-potential sectors engaging with digital technology.
My Department is also investing in advanced digital infrastructure to support Ireland’s digital transformation, co-funding the procurement of Ireland’s next national high-performance supercomputer and the new AI Factory Antenna, strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in digital technologies.
These actions highlight the central role played by my Department through it works with the research, innovation and skills system in enabling Ireland's digital transformation which is critical to national economic and social progress.
