The Irish Government passed its brand new Digital and AI Strategy through Cabinet this week. 90 actions. 5 pillars. And a stated ambition to make Ireland a global leader in digital and AI. I’ve read the strategy and I’m sharing the key ambitions and my own views.
Ireland’s AI Ambition
Welcoming the strategy, the Taoiseach described it as:
“Ireland’s most comprehensive AI and digital roadmap yet.”
The strategy, titled “Connecting Our People, Securing Our Future,” builds on two earlier frameworks:
- AI Here for Good (2021)
- Harnessing Digital (2022)
This is the most ambitious step so far.
Notably, the day before its release, the Government launched a Preliminary Market Consultation on AI Systems, Governance and Training — effectively asking the market what AI tools and services are ready to support public bodies.
That signals something important: this strategy is not just about vision. It’s about implementation.
The Five Pillars: An “AGILE” Framework
The strategy is structured around five ambitions:
- APPLY – Use AI to deliver better, more human-centred public services.
- GROW – Strengthen Irish enterprise and build Ireland’s reputation as a global Applied AI hub.
- INVEST – Develop secure, resilient, future-proof digital infrastructure.
- LEAD – Become a trusted centre for digital regulation and AI excellence.
- EMPOWER – Ensure people have the skills, trust and protections needed in an AI-driven world.
Here’s what that means in practice.
1. A Revolution in Public Services
One of the biggest commitments is a shift to a “Life Events” model.
Instead of services being organised around government departments, they will be redesigned around major life moments — starting a business, becoming a parent, retiring.
By 2030:
- 100% of key public services will be digitalised
- 90% will be delivered online
That’s a significant transformation of how citizens interact with the State.
2. AI at the Core of Enterprise
The strategy places strong emphasis on Applied AI — practical use cases that drive productivity and competitiveness.
Key measures include:
- A new AI Office of Ireland to coordinate implementation of the EU AI Act and support innovation.
- An AI Regulatory Sandbox where SMEs and startups can test solutions under supervision.
- A new Observatory for Business AI Readiness (OBAIR) to track AI adoption and inform policy.
The balancing act is clear: encourage innovation while maintaining regulatory trust.
3. Infrastructure for the Future
You cannot build a digital economy without digital foundations.
The strategy outlines investment in:
- Connectivity: Completing the National Broadband Plan and strengthening subsea connections.
- Compute Power: Hosting an AI Factory Antenna and procuring a new EuroHPC supercomputer, CASPIr, to support research and industry.
- Cyber Security: A new Cyber Security Strategy in 2026 and a dedicated research centre of excellence.
Infrastructure is not glamorous. But it’s critical.
4. Empowering People
AI will disrupt jobs and systems. The strategy acknowledges that.
Key commitments include:
- A National Skills Observatory to monitor labour market gaps.
- A “one-stop-shop” AI Skilling Platform for individuals and employers.
- Continued focus on online safety, particularly for children, including engagement at EU level on age restrictions for under-16s on social media.
Ireland has also committed to pushing the European Commission to ensure that the list of prohibited AI practices under Article 5 of the EU AI Act evolves as AI capabilities grow.
In simple terms: the law must keep pace with the technology.
Ireland wants to help lead that conversation.
AI Progress — and the Delivery Question
So how is this funded?
The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund has already invested €183 million into 51 AI-focused projects, with a further €196 million allocated through to 2030.
There is also continued investment in:
- CeADAR, Ireland’s national centre for Applied AI
- European compute infrastructure through the EuroHPC programme
The ambition is real. The funding is significant.
But strategy is only step one.
Now comes the hard part: delivery.
Because if this strategy is to succeed, it must work not just for policymakers — but for businesses, public servants, and citizens across Ireland.
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Sources
Irish Government press release — gov.ie: Government Publishes New Digital AI Strategy
gov.ie (17 Feb 2026) — Minister of State welcomes Pre-Market Engagement on AI Systems, Governance and Training
About the Podcast Host
AI and Communications Specialist | Author | Podcaster | International Speaker
Joanne Sweeney is a recognised leader in digital marketing and digital transformation, specialising in the practical application of AI to enhance communication strategies. The founder of Digital Training Institute, Joanne, empowers leaders and communications professionals to leverage AI responsibly and effectively, ensuring transparency, trust, and tangible results.
She completed the Harvard Kennedy School Executive Programme in AI and Public Policy this summer before launching her fourth book AI Playbook, in September. Joanne has also published two editions of Public Sector Marketing Pro, which were preceded by her first title, Social Media Under Investigation Law Enforcement and the Social Web.
Her books have become go-to resources for governments, public sector and policing agencies, as well as marketing and communications professionals, all navigating the challenges of the changing Internet.
Joanne is the host of the AI SIX Podcast, a daily six-minute podcast that provides actionable insights, expert interviews, and practical advice to help professionals navigate the new world of work.
