James Geoghegan (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

88. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the means by which his Department plans on using artificial intelligence to speed up the processing of application forms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50482/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department is committed to providing a quality service to all its customers, ensuring that applications are processed and that decisions on entitlement are made as quickly as possible. Over 3.5 million scheme applications were processed in 2024, with performance metrics meeting or exceeding the published targets in the majority of areas. This was achieved despite an ongoing increase in demand for core services, which are currently 30% ahead of pre-pandemic levels.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is not currently used to assist with the processing of application forms. For many years, the Department has automated its processes as much as possible by programming scheme rules into its IT systems. This enables end to end processing of claims including Pensions, Back to School Clothing and Footwear and Child Benefit claims. It is important to note that no claim is disallowed using these automated systems. Any claim that is not awarded, is referred to a Deciding Officer of the Department for human intervention.

The Department consistently leads in the safe and secure adoption of cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that every digital advancement aligns with robust security standards and best practice.

My officials are examining the potential future use of AI technologies to enhance service delivery quality and efficiency. My Department has recently established an Innovation Hub, to allow the organisation to assess and evaluate the potential use of AI in a safe and secure manner going forward.