Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
18. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he considers that the AI advisory council should have a dedicated role for, or membership of, civil society organisations, such as disabled people’s organisations, human rights advocates and people representing marginalised groups and communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12901/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra23. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he plans to put the AI advisory council, which currently operates on a voluntary basis, on a permanent footing and provide it with State funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12951/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 23 together.
The AI Advisory Council was established in January 2024 to provide independent expert advice to government on artificial intelligence policy, and to build public trust. Its members serve in a voluntary capacity and contribute their time and expertise in the public interest. Following two public calls for expressions of interest, I am satisfied that the existing membership reflects a broad range of experience across civil society.
I am aware the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence made several recommendations regarding the Council in their first interim report. The establishment of the new AI Office of Ireland provides an opportunity to put a permanent source of independent expertise on AI in place for the Government, by making this one of the responsibilities of the Office. I believe this is the best way to give effect to the recommendation of the Committee.
The Government recognises the importance of ensuring that Ireland’s approach to AI serves the needs of all parts of society. Our wider national governance framework for AI, including implementation of the EU AI Act, is designed to promote fairness, transparency and strong protections for health, safety and fundamental rights, while supporting the development of human-centric, trustworthy AI.
In November 2024, the Government identified a range of national public authorities which will supervise or enforce the respect of obligations under Union law protecting fundamental rights and my Department continue to liaise with them in preparation for the full implementation of the AI Act.
Under the Act, the AI Office of Ireland will be established as an independent statutory body, with €1.5 million in start-up funding. This Office will act as Ireland’s national focal point for the promotion and adoption of transparent and safe AI, and will play a central role in governance, coordination and innovation to ensure that Ireland fully harnesses AI for economic and societal benefit.
It will also act as the Single Point of Contact for the EU AI Act in Ireland, which will include engaging with stakeholders across civil society.
