Artificial intelligence is moving faster than policy, regulation and public understanding. That’s why Ireland’s newly released AI and Digital Strategy is attracting so much attention.
In this episode, I spoke with Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil, Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Artificial Intelligence and a former AI professional, about what the strategy really means for Ireland’s economy, businesses, and workforce.
Balancing Innovation with Regulation
One of the biggest challenges with AI policy is balancing two competing priorities: innovation and regulation.
Deputy Ó Cearúil describes the strategy as a positive step because it recognises both.
Ireland is home to many global technology companies, so there is huge potential to innovate and lead in AI. But at the same time, strong guardrails are needed to protect citizens, businesses and data.
The strategy aims to ensure that AI development in Ireland is ambitious but safe, with governance and accountability built in from the start.
This approach also aligns with the thinking emerging from Ireland’s Oireachtas Committee on AI, which has emphasised that the EU AI Act should be viewed as a minimum standard rather than the final destination.
The Proposed National AI Office
One of the major developments is the creation of a National AI Office.
The goal of the office is to:
- Support AI adoption across government and industry
- Provide guidance and expertise on AI policy
- Help organisations navigate regulation and implementation
However, there is an ongoing debate about how powerful the office should be.
As it currently stands, the office will act mainly as a signposting body, directing issues to relevant regulators such as the Data Protection Commission or the Central Bank.
Deputy Ó Cearúil believes it may need stronger powers.
Without the ability to investigate complaints or coordinate between regulators, there is a risk that issues could fall between agencies. Strengthening the office could help Ireland respond more effectively to AI-related concerns.
A Regulatory Sandbox for Irish SMEs
Another important initiative is the introduction of a regulatory sandbox.
A sandbox allows companies to test AI solutions in a controlled environment before deploying them at scale. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this could be transformative.
Instead of competing directly with large multinational vendors for government contracts, smaller companies could develop and test problem-solving AI solutions through the sandbox.
This could lead to:
- More AI startups in Ireland
- Greater participation from SMEs in public sector innovation
- New solutions to public sector challenges
By breaking large procurement projects into smaller problem-solving opportunities, the state could stimulate a new wave of AI entrepreneurship.
The Impact of AI on Jobs
One of the biggest public concerns about AI is the future of work.
Deputy Ó Cearúil acknowledges that AI will inevitably automate some tasks and roles. However, the focus should be on reskilling and redeploying workers rather than losing them from the workforce.
A proposed pilot programme would support employees whose roles are affected by AI by helping them retrain for new positions.
In some cases, this could mean transitioning to other roles within the same organisation. In others, it could mean retraining for industries experiencing labour shortages.
Examples might include:
- Green technology roles
- Transport and logistics
- Technical and digital skills sectors
The aim is to keep people in meaningful employment while helping industries access the skills they need.
AI Adoption in the Public Sector
The strategy also sets an ambitious target: public servants becoming AI-enabled by the end of the decade.
Achieving this will require more than technical training. It will require a cultural shift.
Deputy Ó Cearúil emphasised the importance of change management — something many organisations underestimate.
Successful AI transformation means bringing people on the journey. If employees feel that AI is being imposed on them, resistance is inevitable. But if they are trained to use AI tools in ways that genuinely improve their work, adoption becomes much easier.
The lesson is clear: AI transformation must be done with people, not to them.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
Another growing concern about AI is its environmental impact.
AI systems rely on data centres that consume large amounts of energy and water. This has raised questions about sustainability.
Deputy Ó Cearúil believes that the solution lies in linking AI infrastructure with renewable energy.
New legislation around private energy generation could allow large energy users, such as data centres, to produce their own renewable power through wind or solar energy.
If implemented correctly, this approach could ensure that AI infrastructure grows in a way that is both technologically advanced and environmentally responsible.
Europe’s Dependence on US Tech
Across Europe, there is also increasing debate about technological sovereignty.
Some policymakers worry that Europe relies too heavily on US technology platforms. Others argue that collaboration across the EU is more important than building fully independent systems.
Deputy Ó Cearúil believes Europe should focus on working together as a single market.
Too often, European startups are viewed as Irish, French or German companies rather than European ones. This fragmentation can limit scale and investment opportunities.
By thinking more strategically as a continent, Europe could strengthen its position in global AI development.
Ireland’s Opportunity to Lead
Ireland will soon take on the EU Presidency, and digital policy will be a major focus.
As part of this, an AI summit is planned in Dublin, bringing together ministers, policymakers and industry leaders from across Europe.
Deputy Ó Cearúil hopes the summit will focus not just on discussion but on concrete outcomes.
Ireland has a unique opportunity to show leadership in AI governance and innovation. With strong tech expertise, academic research and industry presence, the country is well-positioned to influence how AI develops across Europe.
Final Thoughts
Artificial intelligence presents enormous opportunities, but also complex challenges.
Ireland’s new AI strategy recognises that success will depend on more than just technology.
It will require:
- Smart regulation
- Support for innovation
- Investment in skills and reskilling
- Sustainable infrastructure
- Collaboration across Europe
As Deputy Ó Cearúil put it, Ireland may not compete directly with the United States in scale, but it can lead in responsible and effective AI development.
And that could make all the difference.
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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.
