Mark Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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148. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her Department's use of artificial intelligence in developing policy materials and responding to parliamentary questions. [28591/26]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The Department makes limited and controlled use of artificial intelligence tools, in line with the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service published by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform. All such use is guided by the principles set out in those guidelines, including the need for human oversight, transparency, privacy and accountability.

AI is not used by the Department to make policy decisions, determine outcomes or substitute for professional judgement. Where AI tools are used, the use is confined to supporting a narrow range of tasks, such as research assistance, summarisation or other routine administrative activities. In this context, AI may assist in the preparation of background material for policy development or parliamentary business. Responsibility for all draft material rests with Department officials and any content generated using AI tools is subject to appropriate checking and verification before use.

In accordance with data protection requirements, personal data and sensitive information are not input into AI tools. Clear safeguards are in place to protect information and to ensure compliance with the Department’s legal and policy obligations.

The Department has provided guidance and training to staff on the appropriate and responsible use of AI, including clear direction on acceptable use, the limitations and potential issues that can arise and the requirement for human oversight at all stages.

The Department will continue to keep developments in this area under review, including any updated public service guidance, and will update its own policies and procedures as required.