The refresh takes account of the significant developments in AI technology and regulation since the original strategy was published in 2021, including the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 and the entering into force of the EU AI Act this summer.

It sets out how the government aims to balance innovation with proportionate regulation and trust-building measures.

Some of the new measures include establishing an AI regulatory sandbox to foster innovation in AI; creating a National AI Research Nexus with a unified identity; creating a safe space where civil and public servants are encouraged to experiment with AI tools; commissioning a landmark study on the potential impacts of AI (including generative AI) and other advanced technologies on key sectors of the Irish economy; updating the 2022 study on AI skills of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs; and expanding the range of digital upskilling and reskilling initiatives.

Peter Burke, minister for enterprise, trade and employment, said: “AI presents opportunities completely unlike those we have experienced before with previous technological advancements, in terms of their potentially transformative impact for our collective good.

“There are clear economic opportunities for both our international competitiveness and also at individual business level.

“Firstly, government must keep evolving its offering with technology and raising our game, to boost Ireland as an attractive environment for investment in AI — for both our homegrown companies and foreign multinationals.

“Secondly, this is a huge productivity opportunity for Irish firms. If we can encourage more AI adoption it will help save business owners time, money and make them more competitive.

“Targeted grant funding and advice is available for our smaller businesses with up to 50 staff investing in AI through the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland, and I am urging companies to look into this as a very practical and valuable option.”

Dara Calleary, minister of state for trade promotion, digital and company regulation, added: “We have a huge opportunity for Ireland to harness AI for our greater good, in business, in the economy and in wider society.

“We are all responsible for responsible AI. Building public trust is a huge part of our approach. We are implementing the regulatory structure to provide for the supervision and enforcement of the EU AI Act in Ireland.

“Businesses know that AI skills are a critical growth area, and the education system is expanding its services in response to this increased interest. To build cohesion and coherence, a National AI Research Nexus will be created to increase the potential of Ireland’s research community to deliver serious and significant impact in the global AI landscape.

“In the public sector, alongside various new AI pilot initiatives we will also create a safe space where civil and public servants are encouraged to experiment with AI technology.”